Nigeria takes steps de radicalise convicted boko haram terrorists

Nigeria has indeed taken steps to de-radicalize convicted Boko Haram terrorists. Here are some initiatives:

  1. Deradicalization and Rehabilitation Program: The Nigerian government launched a deradicalization and rehabilitation program in 2016, aimed at rehabilitating and reintegrating former Boko Haram fighters into society. The program is run by the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and other stakeholders.
  2. De-radicalization Centers: The government established de-radicalization centers in various parts of the country, including Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, which is one of the most affected areas by Boko Haram insurgency. These centers provide counseling, education, and vocational training to help former fighters abandon their extremist ideologies.
  3. Rehabilitation and Reintegration: The government has also established rehabilitation and reintegration programs for former Boko Haram fighters, including providing them with skills training, education, and employment opportunities. This is aimed at helping them reintegrate into society and become productive members of their communities.
  4. Community Engagement: The government has engaged with local communities to promote community-led deradicalization initiatives. This involves working with community leaders, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to identify and address the root causes of radicalization.
  5. Psychological Counseling: The government has also provided psychological counseling to former Boko Haram fighters to help them overcome the trauma and psychological scars of their involvement in the insurgency.
  6. Education and Skills Training: The government has provided education and skills training to former Boko Haram fighters, including literacy classes, vocational training, and apprenticeships. This is aimed at helping them acquire new skills and become self-sufficient.
  7. Employment Opportunities: The government has also provided employment opportunities to former Boko Haram fighters, including jobs in the public sector, private sector, and non-governmental organizations.

These initiatives are aimed at addressing the root causes of radicalization and promoting peaceful reintegration of former Boko Haram fighters into society. However, the process is complex and challenging, and requires sustained efforts and resources to achieve success.