The Nigeria Security & Development Forum (NSDF) has thrown its weight behind the Federal Government’s de-radicalisation and reintegration programme, describing it as a critical pillar in achieving sustainable peace and consolidating gains in the fight against insurgency.
Addressing journalists at a press briefing on Tuesday in Abuja , the Forum said its deliberations centred on strengthening non-kinetic strategies to complement ongoing military operations across the country.
“The Forum expresses strong support for Nigeria’s de-radicalisation and reintegration initiative under Operation Safe Corridor,” the Group Secretary, Victor Success, said .
The Forum commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for what it described as “his leadership and commitment to strengthening both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies in addressing insurgency,” noting that his stewardship has enhanced the programme’s credibility and impact.
It also hailed the recent graduation of rehabilitated participants under Operation Safe Corridor as “a major milestone in Nigeria’s peacebuilding efforts,” stressing that the development demonstrates that “sustainable transformation is both possible and measurable.”
While acknowledging the successes recorded by the Armed Forces in degrading terrorist groups, the Forum cautioned that military force alone cannot deliver enduring peace.
“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,” the statement read.
According to the Forum, Operation Safe Corridor aligns with international best practices by combining deradicalisation, psychological support, vocational training and structured reintegration into communities.
It identified several strategic benefits of the programme, including encouraging defections from insurgent groups, improving intelligence gathering, and supporting economic recovery by equipping beneficiaries with employable skills.
“It reflects Nigeria’s humanitarian and constitutional commitment to justice and rehabilitation, particularly for individuals recruited under coercion,” the Forum added.
Drawing parallels with global models, the NSDF noted that similar initiatives in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Denmark, Singapore and Pakistan have contributed to reducing violent extremism and fostering long-term stability.
The Forum, however, acknowledged public concerns, particularly from victims of insurgency, and stressed the need for transparency and accountability in implementing the programme.
“The NSDF recognises the legitimate concerns of citizens… public confidence in the programme must be strengthened through transparent screening and risk assessment mechanisms, continuous monitoring of rehabilitated individuals, and robust community engagement,” it stated.
It further emphasised the importance of supporting victims and affected communities, noting that “balancing justice, accountability, and reconciliation remains critical to the programme’s credibility and long-term success.”
Reaffirming its position, the Forum said supporting rehabilitation efforts “is not a concession, but a strategic imperative,” adding that Operation Safe Corridor is “a vital complement to military efforts and a necessary step toward sustainable peace and national recovery.”
The group called on stakeholders across government, civil society, and traditional institutions to rally behind 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,” the statement said.
It concluded by underscoring the broader goal of national recovery, noting that “peace is not secured by military success alone, but by rebuilding lives, restoring communities, and addressing the root causes of conflict.”
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