The Alliance of Sahel Institute for Security Studies (ASISS), in collaboration with Norway, is to adopt the Borno model as a blueprint for tackling insecurity and reintegrating repentant insurgents in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

The replica, a community-driven approach, has gained international recognition for its effective combat of terrorism to restore peace and stability in conflict-affected areas.

At a high-level meeting in Maiduguri at the weekend, ASISS leaders explored ways to implement the model in the Sahel region, which has been plagued by terrorism and armed conflicts for decades.

The delegation was led by Aliyu Gebi, Special Adviser to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, including security experts and policymakers from the three Sahel countries.

Key attendees included Brig-Gen. Yusuf Ali, the Coordinator of Operation Safe Corridor, General Aimé Simporé from Burkina Faso, Mahamadu Togota from Mali, and Moureima Adamou Noma, representing Niger Republic. They met with representatives from the Norwegian Institute for Conflict Resolution to chart a course for adopting the Borno Model on security and reintegration strategies in the Sahel.

Governor Babagana Zulum, in his remarks, described the model as “one of the most successful security and reintegration strategies in the world.” He highlighted its impact, revealing that about 300,000 insurgents and their families had surrendered to security forces under the programme. Zulum also underscored his administration’s efforts in rebuilding trust among communities, by executing key infrastructure projects.

“We have constructed mega schools and markets, and provided livelihood support to victims of the 15-year insurgency,” he added.
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