The Joint Investigation Centre at Giwa Barracks, Maiduguri, has concluded investigations into 1,450 suspected terrorists, with more than 500 already forwarded for prosecution.
The Commander of the facility, Brigadier General Yusuf Audu, disclosed this on Wednesday during a media briefing in Maiduguri, where he highlighted the centre’s role in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations.
Represented by Captain Puole Obinwal, Audu explained that the centre serves as a unified platform for interrogating and profiling suspects arrested in operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP.
He noted that detainees undergo a structured process involving investigation, legal review, and classification into prosecution, rehabilitation, or reintegration categories based on the outcome of their cases.
According to him, a casework team evaluates investigation reports and provides legal guidance, after which appropriate decisions are taken on each suspect.
He added that the transfer of over 500 suspects for trial, many of whom have already been convicted, reflects the growing effectiveness of coordinated investigations and inter-agency collaboration.
The commander said the centre operates as a multi-agency facility, bringing together personnel from the Nigerian Army, Defence Intelligence Agency, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigerian Correctional Service, and the Nigeria Immigration Service, alongside legal experts from the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.
He stressed that this collaboration ensures thorough investigations and strengthens the credibility of prosecution processes.
Audu further disclosed that the facility maintains strict custody procedures, including proper documentation, biometric data capture, and segregation of detainees, with special provisions for women and children.
He said minors in custody are provided with basic education and care, while detainees receive medical attention, including treatment for infectious diseases in partnership with humanitarian organisations.
The commander added that inmates are provided with meals, clean water, clothing, and hygiene materials, while sanitation is maintained through regular fumigation and health checks.
He also noted that detainees are engaged in vocational and rehabilitation programmes such as tailoring, agriculture, poultry, fish farming, and bakery operations aimed at equipping them with skills for reintegration.
Audu highlighted the involvement of international partners, including the International Committee of the Red Cross, International Organisation for Migration, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and UNICEF, in supporting infrastructure, data management, healthcare, and welfare initiatives at the centre.
He emphasised that all investigations are conducted in line with the Terrorism Prevention Act, with due regard for human rights and judicial oversight.
The commander described the centre’s operations as aligned with global best practices, noting that its approach balances security objectives with the protection of fundamental rights.
