Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo, the Borno State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, has asserted that not all individuals associated with Boko Haram are insurgents. She stated that among the 100,000 repentant Boko Haram members, approximately 5,000 were actual combatants, while the majority consisted of farmers, women, children, and other victims held captive by the insurgents.

Gambo made these remarks during an event commemorating the 2023 International Day of Peace in Maiduguri, where she presented a paper titled "Borno Model." She clarified that the government is not releasing insurgents into the civilian community, but rather those who are victims held by the actual Boko Haram fighters.

Contrary to public concerns that the 100,000 individuals were insurgents, only about 5,000 are confirmed combatants, with most others being innocent victims, including farmers, women, and children who were held hostage by the insurgents.

"We do not release the insurgents, and we maintain records of the whereabouts of anyone who is released," Gambo emphasized.

She highlighted the rigorous process individuals must undergo before being reintegrated into the community, including three weeks of intensive human rights training led by security and religious leaders. Additionally, their community must endorse their return.

The commissioner also called for international support to help the government achieve lasting peace in the state.