Towards an All-Inclusive Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration in North-East Nigeria

Abstract

Despite the logistical challenges of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) the 
acquisition of civilian status and sustainable employment and income is considered the most 
difficult phase of any DDR process. . This has generated resentment among many Nigerians. In 
pursuit of its agenda, Boko Haram has engaged in mass killings, mass kidnapping and went as 
far as establishing a form of rebel governance in parts of territories where it operates. The 
group may have used forced conscriptions to recruit members. Offering amnesty and applying a 
DDR will demonstrate the government‘s commitment to finding a democratic solution to the 
insurgency. It demonstrates to the Nigerian members of the fighting group and local 
communities that the government may be willing to provide a more conciliatory solution to the 
conflicts. DDR needs to be dynamic, innovative and pragmatic to remain valuable in the 
contemporary times. The Human Needs Model and Theories of conflict transformation were 
adopted as theoretical framework. Data were collected essentially from secondary sources and 
qualitatively analysed. This study attempts to find pragmatic solutions to the inherent difficulties 
of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration in Nigeria, particularly in the ongoing 
Northeast insurgency and provide workable recommendations.