The Federal Government has allocated approximately N1.4 billion for the rehabilitation of repentant terrorists and the establishment of terrorism trial centers over the past year and a half. In response to escalating security threats, the government formed the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) following the enactment of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Bill on May 12, 2022.
In December 2022, plans were announced to create two disarmament, deradicalization, rehabilitation, and reintegration centers for former members of Boko Haram and other terrorist factions. The NCTC Coordinator revealed to a legislative committee that N2.4 billion will be dedicated to these efforts as part of a broader N3.8 billion capital project budget for 2023.
Investigations revealed that from December 2022 to May 2024, the Ministry of Justice allocated a significant portion of this budget—totalling N1.4 billion—for constructing rehabilitation centers and renovating facilities for terrorism trials. In March 2023 alone, the ministry disbursed N612 million to various contractors for related projects under Operation Safe Corridor.
As of 2024, additional payments have been made to facilitate the procurement of equipment for terrorism case prosecutions, totaling N179 million. This includes payments to several firms for the supply of necessary technology, highlighting a continued investment in counter-terrorism efforts.
On December 15, the NCTC announced the conviction of at least 325 terrorists during its Phase 5 and Phase 6 trials at the Kainji Detention Facility, with sentences ranging from death to life imprisonment based on the severity of their offenses. Despite the success of these trials, details surrounding the commencement of Phase 7 remain undisclosed.
Concerns have emerged regarding the secretive nature of these trials, prompting responses from security experts and civil society organizations. Some experts argue that the lack of transparency undermines the authenticity of the judicial process, while others contend that confidentiality is necessary for security reasons. The discussion emphasizes the need for a balance between security and the rule of law in addressing terrorism in Nigeria.
