Niger region focuses on reintegrating former fighters

In Dosso, Niger, regional officials, security forces, and civil society representatives met to discuss how to transform the surrender of armed group members into an opportunity for economic investment and social cohesion.

The group views the successful reintegration of former fighters as key to reviving commerce and agriculture in areas affected by insecurity. Regional authorities believe that supporting former combatants will lessen the burden on defense budgets and add workers to the local economy.

Colonel-Major Bana Alhassane, governor of the Dosso region, stated that voluntary surrender presents a concrete opportunity to reduce violence and rebuild communities, but requires commitment from economic actors, leaders, women, and young people. The success of the program relies on trust that the government will provide support and that communities will accept returning fighters, as a lack of either could lead to a return to crime.

Malam Goni Ibrahim, national coordinator for stabilization programs, emphasized that the credibility of institutions is essential for achieving peace. Participants in the workshop agreed that programs should move beyond simply disarming fighters to focus on economic and social reintegration, aiming to integrate former combatants into local markets and create lasting stability. The meeting covered conditions for disarmament, socio-economic reintegration, and supporting former fighters as they return to their communities and participate in local economic activities.