Senators from the northeast region of Nigeria are asking security agents battling insurgency in the region to also embark on de-radicalization programmes to sustain the gains already made in the counter terrorism efforts.
Senator Abubakar Kyari from Borno State made the call at a security meeting with the Inspector General of Police and the British High Commission in Abuja.
According to him, de-radicalization programmes targeted at changing the mindset of youths in the region is a sure way to defeat Boko Haram and ensure lasting peace in the area.
The meeting between the Police and lawmakers was targeted at finding solutions to acts of terrorism in the northeast and embark on reconstruction and reintegration.
A delegation of the British High Commission to Nigeria, led by Gary White, also urged security agencies in the region to work at building trust with the communities.
The Inspector General of Police, Mr Solomon Arase, agreed with the need to change the mindset of the youths in the northeast region and thanked the lawmakers for their support.
He, however, said that he would not deploy his men until their security is guaranteed, stating that the lives of the policemen should be more valued.
Thousands have been displaced from their homes as terrorism in the north east has made the region unsafe for many.
