The Nigerian government has unveiled a new strategy aimed at tackling insurgency in the north east.
Addressing a news conference in Abuja on Monday, the National Security Adviser, Rtd Colonel Sambo Dasuki, explained that the new approach is aimed at de-radicalising convicted terrorists as well as suspects awaiting trial for terrorism charges.
Colonel Dasuki explained that the approach would span over a period of two years and would address the economic development of the north eastern part of the country.
“The soft approach to countering terrorism will help to address the root cause of terrorism,” he said.
To effectively administer the approach, the office of the National Security Adviser is partnering with the international community for technical support.
The approach will complement other approaches to counter terrorism, including dialogue.
The approach will also engage state and local governments in the north east in the development of a regional redevelopment plan to serve as a foundation to revitalise the region.
Several attacks by the terrorists have hindered development in the region.
The US and other International community had advised the Nigerian government to consider another strategy in tackling the insurgency.
