Boko Haram repentant recruitment warning as Bishop Maduwike urges FG to avoid enlisting former insurgents into the Nigerian Army over security risks

The Anglican Bishop in charge of Ikeduru Diocese, Rt Rev. Emmanuel Maduwike, has warned the Federal Government against any deliberate or indirect move to recruit repentant Boko Haram members into the Nigerian Army on Monday, 18 May 2026.

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The warning, issued under the theme “Boko Haram repentant recruitment warning,” was delivered during a sermon at the 2026 Council of Knights meeting held within the Ikeduru Diocese.

Bishop Maduwike said Nigeria is currently facing one of its most severe security challenges in history, expressing concern over alleged intelligence leaks and coordinated attacks against military personnel in the North.

He claimed that what was previously considered rumour now appears increasingly evident, alleging that insurgents and bandits may have access to sensitive military information, contributing to deadly attacks on soldiers.

The cleric further suggested that there are concerns over infiltration within the nation’s defence structure, stating that some alleged Boko Haram elements may have become integrated into military-related networks or have close ties with active insurgents.

According to him, these developments have reportedly resulted in the killing of Nigerian soldiers in coordinated operations carried out with precision and severity.

Bishop Maduwike also called for an independent and objective investigation into claims that top military authorities sometimes order frontline troops to withdraw during critical operations against insurgents in the North-East.

He criticised the activities of armed bandits, alleging that their operations have displaced indigenous communities while enabling the exploitation of natural resources such as gold in affected regions.

The bishop warned that incorporating repentant terrorists into the Nigerian Army could further worsen the country’s security situation, stressing the need for caution and due diligence in any reintegration process.

He questioned the criteria used to determine genuine repentance and raised concerns about the risk of recidivism among former insurgents if not properly managed.

Instead of military enlistment, Bishop Maduwike recommended alternative rehabilitation pathways such as skill acquisition programmes, education, and other forms of social reintegration.

Speaking on the theme “Faithfulness in Service,” he urged members of the Knights to demonstrate sincerity and commitment in both religious and public service, emphasising selflessness and integrity.

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He concluded by noting that Jesus Christ exemplified faithful service throughout his earthly ministry, contrasting it with what he described as growing self-interest among many in contemporary society.