Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, has called for a more rehabilitative approach in dealing with terrorism, urging that insurgents willing to surrender should be given a chance to reform. He made the remarks during an inaugural lecture at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre in Abuja, organised for the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre.
Speaking at the event, Oluyede said many of those involved in insurgency are Nigerians and should not be completely written off.
“These are Nigerians, mostly,” he said. “It’s important for us to give them that window to repent, if they want, rather than pushing them to the extreme.”
According to him, limiting the options to either death or continued violence could make the situation worse by hardening the resolve of insurgents and prolonging the conflict.
His position reflects the military’s ongoing deradicalisation and reintegration programme, Operation Safe Corridor, which is designed to encourage fighters to lay down their arms and return to civilian life.
The programme has remained controversial, with many Nigerians questioning whether those involved in serious crimes should be reintegrated into society.
Oluyede acknowledged these concerns but argued that offering a path to redemption is both strategic and humane.
He also drew a moral comparison, referencing the idea of forgiveness and return, noting that allowing people to renounce violence voluntarily could gradually weaken insurgent groups.
The comments come at a time when Nigeria continues to face security challenges, especially in the North-East, and as debates continue over the most effective way to achieve lasting peace.