By Abu Faisal

In a strategic move to combat Boko Haram’s influence in Nigeria’s Northeast, Neem Foundation, a Truth Alliance member, has sponsored a radio talk show under the “Time to Tell the Truth” campaign in Maiduguri.

The second instalment of the series aired live on Peace FM Radio Station (102.5 FM) this Saturday, featuring discussions on community involvement in peace-building. The session was highlighted in a press statement by Mr Ahmed Mustapha, spokesperson for The Truth Alliance.

This week’s guests, counsellors and researchers Garba Yusuf and Abdullahi Muhammad from Neem Foundation, shared their insights and expertise. The discussions, hosted in Hausa by Muhammad Abubakar Askira, delved into the root causes of insurgency and the recruitment strategies of terrorist groups.

Garba Yusuf pointed to parental negligence and unemployment as major factors contributing to insurgency. “During the advent of the menace, you will notice that some parents are showing neglect on their wards without asking where, what, and with whom they are mingling. Besides, the key factor that lures the people is unemployment,” Yusuf explained. He stressed that jobless individuals are more vulnerable to terrorist recruitment due to financial incentives.

Radio Program at Peace FM

Abdullahi Muhammad highlighted the targeted recruitment of young people by terrorist groups. “If you consider the tactics terrorist groups use to deceive people to join their ranks, about 60% or 70% of whom fall victim are young people, specifically those between 18 and 30 years of age,” he noted. Muhammad underscored the importance of engaging youths to prevent their exploitation by insurgents.

The program concluded with an interactive call-in session, featuring listeners from as far as Fune LGA in Yobe State and Jigawa. Muhammad Buba from Fune praised the show, saying, “Alhamdulillah, we have started getting peace in our region, and I call on all to participate in the process by supporting the military with information and other things that bring peace.” Umar from Kwaram, Jigawa State, urged the continuation of such initiatives.

Mr Ahmed Mustapha reiterated The Truth Alliance’s commitment to fostering community engagement and promoting peace in the Northeast. He stated, “The Truth Alliance is committed to unmasking the truth behind violent and extremist groups and empowering communities to resist tyranny and violence. Through education, outreach, and collaboration, the Truth Alliance strives to build a safer, more resilient society for all.”

The “Time to Tell the Truth” campaign aims to expose the deceptive tactics of violent extremist groups and educate communities on resisting such influences.