Niger reintegrates 91 former Boko Haram members in latest DDR wave
Niger is steadily advancing its peace and social reintegration policy through its Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program. In its seventh such initiative, 91 former Boko Haram members including 33 children have been reintegrated into society after completing a deradicalization process at the Goudoumaria center in the Diffa region.
An official ceremony, held in two stages in Goudoumaria and Diffa city, marked the graduation of this new group.
The beneficiaries 40 men, 18 women, and 33 children took an oath on the Quran to renounce violence and disavow all ties to Boko Haram and similar extremist groups.
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The event was chaired by Diffa Regional Governor, Major General Mahamadou Ibrahim Bagadoma, alongside civil and military officials.
Prior to reintegration, the former combatants received psychological support and practical training in various fields to help them achieve self-sufficiency.
They were also provided with startup kits to support their socioeconomic reintegration and ensure stability in civilian life.
During the ceremony, the Governor of Diffa, the National Coordinator of stabilization Programs, and the Public Prosecutor of Niamey urged the reintegrated individuals to honor their commitments and become agents of peace within their communities.
Implemented by the Nigerien government, the DDR program forms a key part of the country’s comprehensive counterterrorism strategy.
It offers a second chance to those who choose to leave armed groups, complementing military efforts with sustainable deradicalization and reintegration measures.
This seventh wave underscores Niger’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation, stability, and peace in the Lake Chad region, long affected by Boko Haram violence.
Fayçal BADIE
