
Peace Begins With A Smile
This project aimed to reintegrate repentant Boko Haram fighters who underwent a 16-week de-radicalization program. The focus was on understanding community responses, reactions, attitudes, and behaviors towards these defectors, as well as their expectations from the government and other stakeholders.
To achieve this, dialogues were conducted across 10 Local Government Areas (LGAs), including Bama, Damboa, and Gwoza. Participants included traditional leaders, religious leaders, local security groups, women’s groups, and youth groups. Separate meetings were held with local emirs and government officials to gather their insights and perspectives on the reintegration program.
These discussions provided valuable information on the reintegration process, helping to identify key challenges and opportunities for successful reintegration. By engaging with diverse stakeholders, the project fostered greater understanding and cooperation, ultimately supporting the peaceful reintegration of former Boko Haram fighters.