The Nigeria Security & Development Forum (NSDF) has expressed support for the federal government’s led de-radicalisation and reintegration of ex-terrorists under Operation Safe Corridor.
The forum called on all stakeholders including government institutions, civil society organisations, traditional and religious leaders, and the general public to support and strengthen the initiative.
“Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment. The consolidation of military gains through inclusive peacebuilding efforts will determine the country’s long-term security trajectory,” it said.
Addressing a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja, themed, ” Secretary of the group, Victor Success, commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Olufemi Oluyede, for his leadership and commitment to strengthening both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies in addressing insurgency.
He said the CDS’s stewardship has contributed significantly to the success and credibility of the programme.
The Forum also applauded the recent graduation of rehabilitated participants under Operation Safe Corridor, describing it as a major milestone in Nigeria’s peacebuilding efforts.
“This achievement reflects the effectiveness of structured deradicalisation, rehabilitation, and reintegration processes, and demonstrates that sustainable transformation is both possible and measurable, ” he said.
According to the forum, Operation Safe Corridor aligns with internationally recognised best practices that integrate security responses with deradicalisation, psychological support, vocational training, and structured community reintegration.
The forum noted that while sustained military operations by the Armed Forces of Nigeria have significantly degraded the operational capacity of terrorist groups, global experience confirms that durable peace cannot be achieved through force alone.
“Rehabilitation and reintegration programmes remain essential components of a comprehensive national security strategy, providing pathways for disengagement and reducing the risk of recidivism,” he said.
The forum however, said it recognised the legitimate concerns of citizens, especially victims of insurgency, noting that public confidence in the programme must be strengthened through: transparent screening and risk assessment mechanisms.
It also called for continuous monitoring of rehabilitated individuals,robust community engagement and sustained support for victims and affected communities.
