Nigeria Unveils Counter-Terrorism Strategic Plan to Boost National Security
The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has launched the National Counter-Terrorism Centre’s Strategic Plan 2025-2030, a comprehensive framework aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and combating terrorism. The unveiling ceremony, held in Abuja, brought together high-ranking government officials, security chiefs, diplomats, private sector leaders, and development partners.
The five-year plan is designed to modernize Nigeria’s security systems, protect citizens from emerging threats, and build a resilient and peaceful nation. According to Senator Akpabio, the plan provides a structured approach to transforming institutions, leveraging advanced technology, and enhancing intelligence coordination and collaboration across government and society.
The Senator emphasized the need for sustained investments in technology, training, and personnel to effectively combat terrorism. He outlined three critical pillars of the strategy, including strengthening national resilience through early warning systems and community intelligence, integrating modern technology such as drones and cybersecurity platforms, and enhancing regional and international cooperation to confront transnational threats.
The National Security Adviser, represented by the National Coordinator of the NCTC, Major-General Adamu Laka, highlighted the social drivers of violent extremism, including unemployment, drug abuse, and lack of opportunities. He noted that initiatives such as the “Seeds of Hope” program, aimed at rehabilitating victims of terrorism through agriculture and livelihoods, will strengthen intelligence, operations, and national resilience.
The African Union Commission representative, Dr. Usman Hussain, commended Nigeria’s leadership in counter-terrorism and announced upcoming technical missions and peer-review engagements to strengthen the country’s counter-terrorism capacity. Development partners, diplomats, security chiefs, and private sector leaders pledged support for the initiative, describing it as crucial for national stability and economic growth.
The unveiling of the Strategic Plan 2025-2030 marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism. The plan’s implementation is expected to have a positive impact on national security, economic development, and regional stability. With the support of international partners and stakeholders, Nigeria is poised to make significant strides in its fight against terrorism and build a more secure and prosperous future for its citizens.