Borno Denies Sponsoring Former Boko Haram Terrorists for Enlistment in Nigerian Army

The Borno State Government has denied allegations that it sponsored former Boko Haram members for recruitment into the Nigerian Army, describing the claims as false, misleading, and without factual basis.

In a statement, the state government said it has not recommended or facilitated the enlistment of any former insurgents into the military. Officials urged the public to disregard reports suggesting that ex-Boko Haram fighters were being sponsored to join the armed forces.

The government reiterated its commitment to supporting the Nigerian military and other security agencies in the fight against terrorism while emphasizing that all recruitment into the armed forces is conducted in accordance with established procedures and the authority of the military.

According to the statement, the state's rehabilitation and reintegration programmes are aimed at promoting peace and reducing violent extremism by helping repentant former fighters return to civilian life under existing legal and security frameworks. These programmes, officials stressed, do not include facilitating military enlistment.

The denial follows public concern and widespread speculation over reports alleging that former Boko Haram members were being recruited into the Nigerian Army.

Borno State called on citizens to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unsubstantiated claims that could undermine public confidence in the country's security institutions.