The Nigerian Army has handed over 350 individuals rescued from Sambisa Forest to the Borno State Government for rehabilitation and reintegration.
The handover ceremony took place on Monday in Maiduguri, where Major General Kenneth Chigbu, Deputy Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai, highlighted the successful 10-day clearance operation in Sambisa Forest that led to the rescue.
“The people we are handing over today, totaling 350, comprised six adult males, 134 females, and 209 children found in Sambisa Forest,” said Maj.-Gen. Chigbu. “This effort is a demonstration of professionalism exhibited by the joint task force. What you are seeing are people kept in the forest obviously against their wish.”
Chigbu detailed the army’s efforts in ensuring the well-being of the rescued individuals, which included providing food, conducting medical evaluations, and planning to supply them with decent clothing. He also emphasized the military’s ongoing commitment to restoring normalcy and peace in the north-east region.
He acknowledged the support from the Borno Government, the International Committee for the Red Cross, and other international and local organizations in this endeavor.
Receiving the rescued individuals, Mrs. Asabe Mohammed, Director of Social Welfare in the Ministry of Women Affairs, outlined the government’s rehabilitation plan. “They would be documented, provided with mental health and psychosocial support, and trained in skills of their choice,” she said. “We have about 10 different skills acquisition training programs for them to make their respective choices. They will be provided with tools at the end before linking them with their communities and families for reintegration.”
