The Nigerian military has dismissed claims that former or active Boko Haram members are being recruited and armed to fight alongside its troops, describing the allegation as false and misleading.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Brigadier General Yusuf Ali, coordinator of the deradicalisation programme, rejected a viral video suggesting that ex-insurgents were being equipped for combat operations.
He explained that Operation Safe Corridor is a non-kinetic, multi-agency initiative focused strictly on the deradicalisation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of former fighters, stressing that participants are not armed or deployed for military duties.
“The claim is false, misleading, and entirely unfounded. At no point are participants armed, mobilised, or deployed for combat operations,” Ali said.
He further clarified that while some deradicalisation efforts exist at state levels, they operate independently and are not part of the Safe Corridor framework.
Addressing the viral footage, Ali stated that the location shown does not correspond with the official programme facility. He noted that the designated camp is located in Mallam Sidi and operates under strict military supervision.
“The location shown in the video is clearly inconsistent with the OPSC facility,” he added, noting that individuals seen in the clip—including a foreign blogger—have no affiliation with the programme.
Ali explained that participants undergo thorough screening and, upon completion, are handed over to state governments for reintegration under monitored conditions. He said the initiative has helped reduce the number of active insurgents while contributing to long-term national stability.
He also highlighted the support of international partners such as the European Union, noting that their involvement underscores the programme’s transparency and alignment with global best practices.
Warning that misinformation could undermine security efforts, Ali invited the originator of the claims and other credible observers to visit the facility for independent verification, reaffirming the military’s commitment to professionalism and transparency.