More than 210 Boko Haram fighters, including conscripted members and their families, have surrendered to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in Bol, Baga Sola, in the Lake Chad region. The mass surrender follows intensified military operations by Nigerian Army, Air Force, and Navy personnel under Operation Hadin Kai, led by Theatre Commander Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar.
The MNJTF’s Chief Military Public Information Officer, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, said the surrendered fighters admitted to involvement in attacks along the Bakatolerom, Barkalam, Litri, and Kaiga Ngbouboun areas. Troops recovered ten assorted weapons from the group.
Major General Moussa Haussa, Commander of Sector 2/Operation Lake Chad, commended the troops’ dedication and urged them to maintain pressure on terrorist groups. He stated, “There is no future for terrorism in the region,” and confirmed that the surrendered individuals would be treated humanely and enrolled in a deradicalization programme.
Lake Chad Region Governor Brigadier General Saleh Haggar Tidjani welcomed the former fighters, announcing plans for skills acquisition programmes to aid their reintegration into society. The initiative aims to provide sustainable livelihoods and support a transition to civilian life.
The MNJTF described the surrender as a significant setback for Boko Haram, highlighting the success of its combined military and rehabilitation strategy. The task force pledged to continue collaborating with regional partners to restore lasting peace and security in the Lake Chad Basin.
