Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has revealed that more than 60,000 children are among the over 120,000 Boko Haram members who have surrendered to authorities. Musa disclosed this during an interview with Arise News on Monday, shedding light on efforts to combat insurgency and rehabilitate those affected.
According to Musa, not all individuals associated with Boko Haram joined willingly. Many were forced into the group or enslaved, underscoring the complex nature of the insurgency.
“Not everyone that is part of it is a terrorist,” Musa explained. “Some were conscripted, some forced, some enslaved. Over 120,000 have surrendered, and of this number, over 60,000 are children.”
Musa detailed how Boko Haram adapted its recruitment methods after losing territorial strongholds. Initially, the group would capture communities and coerce men into joining, often under threat of execution. With their territory lost, the insurgents began using women to produce a new generation of fighters.
“What they do is that if a woman gives birth, four months later, they impregnate her again,” Musa said. “Children born into such a system would lack empathy, making them a potential threat. That’s why we are relieved that over 60,000 of these children have surrendered.”
The surrendered individuals are being profiled in collaboration with the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies. Musa emphasized that those found culpable of terrorist activities face investigation and prosecution, while women, children, and the elderly are receiving care and undergoing rehabilitation.
The government is committed to deradicalization and reintegration efforts to ensure sustainable peace. “Nigeria is safe and will continue to be safe,” Musa assured, highlighting the nation’s ongoing fight against insurgency and its focus on securing a better future for affected communities.
This significant surrender marks a hopeful step in Nigeria’s battle to eradicate terrorism and rehabilitate those drawn into the insurgency.
