The Borno State Government has strongly denied allegations that it sponsored former Boko Haram members for enlistment in the Nigerian Army. A report by Sahara Reporters on 25 June claimed that 40 former insurgents shortlisted for the Army's 91 Regular Recruit Intake (RRI) were undergoing medical screening in Borno State. However, officials have dismissed the report as untrue.
Officials Deny Allegations
When contacted by PREMIUM TIMES, the Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, referred inquiries to the Borno State Guidance and Counselling Board, which handles recruitment support and attestation. The board's Executive Secretary, Mohammed Jimmeh, categorically refuted the claim. "No, no, that is not true. I am surprised myself when I saw this because I've been there throughout the screening," he said.
Mr Jimmeh emphasized that neither the state government nor his agency sponsored or recommended any former insurgents. He stated that candidates apply independently through the Nigerian Army portal and that the board does not recruit or nominate applicants.
Recruitment Figures and Process
According to Mr Jimmeh, 3,036 applicants from Borno were initially shortlisted through the Army's recruitment portal. Of these, 2,100 presented in person for screening, and only 732 successfully cleared all stages, including identity verification, medical exams, and physical assessments. "We have, all in all, 732 now that were successfully screened, which we can confirm by face and by name," he said.
The board deploys two representatives from each of Borno's 27 local government areas—54 officials in total—to verify applicants' indigene status. Candidates whose identities cannot be verified are rejected before proceeding to physical and medical tests. Those who fail height, health, or fitness requirements are also disqualified.
No Records of Former Insurgents
Mr Jimmeh stated that the board has not seen or authenticated any list of 40 former insurgents. "No, not at all. Not to my knowledge," he said. He cited a recent case where an applicant claiming to be a Borno indigene was found to be from Plateau State and was handed over to military authorities. "Even the least issue, we detect it and flush it out," he added.
The board does not maintain records of rehabilitated or deradicalized former insurgents, as its role is limited to verifying indigene status and coordinating logistics. "That is not our responsibility. Our responsibility is to ensure that indigenes of Borno access opportunities in the military and paramilitary services and that the recruitment process is transparent," Mr Jimmeh explained.
Army Yet to Respond
PREMIUM TIMES contacted the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Onyechi Anele, for clarification but had not received a response at press time. The Army has not confirmed whether any former Boko Haram members were shortlisted or if the alleged list is authentic.
