Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Nigerian military has dismissed as false and misleading, claims circulating in a viral video that repentant Boko Haram members are being armed to fight alongside troops.
In a statement signed by Coordinator Operation SAFE CORRIDOR Brigadier General Yusuf Ali , the military described the allegation as entirely unfounded, stressing that no such programme exists under its supervision.
Operation SAFE CORRIDOR clarified that its initiative is strictly a non-combat programme focused on de-radicalisation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of former insurgents who have been carefully screened.
According to the military, participants in the programme are never armed, trained for combat, or deployed in any military operation.
The statement also refuted claims about the facility shown in the viral video, noting that it is not the official camp of Operation SAFE CORRIDOR. The designated facility, it said, is located in Mallam Sidi, Gombe State, and operates under strict military control.
It further noted that the foreign blogger linked to the video, identified as Jones Raw, has no connection with the programme and has never been granted access to its facility.
The military emphasized that Operation SAFE CORRIDOR remains a key part of Nigeria’s counterterrorism strategy, aimed at reducing the number of fighters and promoting long-term peace.
It added that the programme is supported by international partners, including the European Union, ensuring adherence to global standards and transparency.
To counter the misinformation, the military has invited the originator of the claims and other credible observers to visit the facility in Gombe State for independent verification.
Consequently, Operation SAFE CORRIDOR reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and national security.