Operatives of the Nigerian army has handed 350 rescued victims of Boko Haram kidnapping to the Borno state government at Maimalari cantonment in Maiduguri, the state capital.
The former abductees were recently rescued jointly with other security agencies and troops of operation “Hadin Kai” after more than ten years in captivity deep inside Sambisa Forest.
At the hand-over ceremony, deputy Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai, Major Genenera Kenneth Chigbu, said they were rescued during the 10-day clearance operation in Sambisa. He attributed the success of the operation to international partners and the support of the Borno state government; adding that it will continue remarkable records in the fight against terrorism in the northeast region.
“The people we are handing over today totalling 350 comprised six adult males, 134 females and 209 children found in Sambisa Forest.
“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,” the general said.
The Director, Social Welfare in the Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs Asabe Mohammed, who received the returnees on behalf of the state government said they would be taken to a rehabilitation centre.
“They would be documented, provided with mental health and psychosocial support, and trained in skills of their choice.
“We have about 10 different skills acquisition training 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,” she said.
