Military Debunks Claims of Arming Repentant Boko Haram Fighters, Defends Safe Corridor Programme

The Nigerian military has dismissed viral claims that repentant Boko Haram fighters are being armed and deployed alongside troops, describing the allegation as false and capable of undermining national security efforts.

The clarification was issued by the Coordinator of Operation Safe Corridor, Brig. Gen. Yusuf Ali, following the circulation of a controversial video online. The footage, reportedly recorded by Danish vlogger Jones Raw, showed individuals alleged to be former insurgents carrying weapons, with accompanying claims that they were being integrated into military operations.

Reacting in a statement, Ali said the narrative misrepresents the core mandate of the programme, stressing that Operation Safe Corridor is strictly a non-combat initiative focused on de-radicalisation, rehabilitation and reintegration of former fighters.

“At no point are participants armed, mobilised or deployed for combat operations,” he said, adding that individuals who complete the programme are handed over to relevant state authorities for reintegration under established monitoring frameworks.

The programme, launched by the Federal Government as part of its counter-insurgency strategy, is designed to encourage voluntary surrender by insurgents, reduce the number of active fighters, and promote long-term peace in the North-East. It operates in collaboration with multiple agencies and international partners, including the European Union.

Ali further clarified that the facility shown in the viral video does not belong to Operation Safe Corridor, noting that the official rehabilitation camp is located in Mallam Sidi, Gombe State, and operates under strict military supervision.

He also distanced the programme from various state-level reintegration initiatives, explaining that such programmes are independently managed and not under the control of the Defence Headquarters.

Security analysts say misinformation around sensitive programmes like Operation Safe Corridor can erode public trust and complicate ongoing counterterrorism efforts, especially in a region that has battled insurgency since 2009.

To address concerns, the military has invited credible observers and stakeholders to visit the Mallam Sidi facility for independent verification of its operations.

The Nigerian Armed Forces reiterated their commitment to transparency and professionalism, insisting that the programme remains a key non-kinetic component of efforts to restore peace and stability in conflict-affected communities.