The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Transparency International Nigeria have commended Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, for launching Operation Safe Corridor, a non-kinetic initiative aimed at addressing insecurity through peaceful means.

Governor Lawal explained that the special operation focuses on disarmament, de-radicalisation, and reintegration of repentant bandits who surrender unconditionally, helping them transition back into society.

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC described the initiative as a bold step towards resolving Nigeria’s security challenges. “The shift from kinetic to non-kinetic approaches aligns with the administration’s commitment to decisively tackle banditry,” the statement read. The organization believes the program offers a safe passage for non-radicalized individuals who were drawn into banditry due to poverty, illiteracy, and other socio-economic challenges.

CISLAC urged the government to ensure that comprehensive rehabilitation and socio-economic empowerment programs are put in place before reintegrating repentant bandits to prevent re-radicalization and security threats. The group also called on the Zamfara State Government to intensify efforts to break the cycle of banditry by targeting recruitment, indoctrination, and acts of violence.

Additionally, CISLAC emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships to enhance community awareness and counter-extremism education. The organization further stressed the need for psycho-social support, compensation, and reconstruction for victims of banditry to alleviate trauma and economic losses.

Finally, CISLAC urged the Federal Government to collaborate with Zamfara State to ensure the successful implementation of Operation Safe Corridor, reinforcing the initiative’s long-term impact on national security.