In a significant boost to regional security, no fewer than 210 Boko Haram fighters and their family members have surrendered to troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) operating in the Lake Chad area.

The mass surrender comes after intensified military operations—both combat (kinetic) and non-combat (non-kinetic)—that have steadily put pressure on the insurgents in the region. This was disclosed on Wednesday by MNJTF spokesman, Lt.-Col. Olaniyi Osoba.

According to Lt.-Col. Osoba, the surrendered fighters admitted to taking part in various terrorist activities around the Bakatolerom, Barkalam, Litri, and Kaiga Ngbouboun areas of Lake Chad. During the operation, troops also recovered ten assorted weapons of different calibres from the militants.

Describing the development as a “major blow” to Boko Haram’s lingering presence in the region, Osoba highlighted that it underlines the success of the MNJTF’s comprehensive counter-insurgency strategy.

The Commander of Sector 2/Operation Lake Chad, Maj.-Gen Moussa Haussa, praised his troops for their dedication and urged them to keep up the momentum. He also assured that all those who surrendered would be treated humanely and enrolled in the MNJTF’s deradicalisation and rehabilitation programme.

In a further show of support, the Governor of the Lake Chad Region, Brig.-Gen Saleh Haggar Tidjani, welcomed the former fighters. He promised they would be provided with skills acquisition programmes to help them rebuild their lives, reintegrate peacefully into society, and find sustainable livelihoods.

“This initiative aims to give them a real chance at a new beginning and ensure they become productive members of their communities,” Osoba added.

As the fight against terrorism continues, the surrender and planned rehabilitation of these individuals represent a hopeful step towards lasting peace in the Lake Chad area.