Boko Haram recruits kidnapped children after losing fighters – Presidency
Boko Haram’s Recruitment Tactics for Children Discussed by Presidential Adviser
Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Bola Tinubu, outlined the recruitment strategies employed by the militant group Boko Haram during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
Bwala explained that when Boko Haram begins to lose members, the group often resorts to invading villages to kidnap children for recruitment. “When Boko Haram starts to lose their members, they go to villages, take children, and bring them to the bush to recruit them against their will,” he stated.
He noted that those who manage to escape from Boko Haram camps often seek refuge with the Nigerian government, claiming they have repented. Bwala asserted that these individuals are not met with violence from government forces, emphasizing the complexities of the situation.
“The dynamics of armed conflict are governed by the United Nations Convention,” he added. Bwala acknowledged the concerns of many Nigerians regarding former Boko Haram members rejoining the conflict. He referred to comments made by the Borno state governor, who indicated that some recent attacks may be linked to these defectors.
“These scenarios are possibilities in warfare and conflict,” Bwala said, pointing out that defections can occur even within established state institutions. He underscored that these realities must be acknowledged when addressing the ongoing security challenges.
