The National Security Adviser (NSA) has announced a robust initiative aimed at strengthening inter-agency coordination and intensifying community engagement, which are identified as foundational pillars in the recently revised National Counter-Terrorism Strategy 2025.
This comprehensive strategy seeks to address the evolving and multifaceted threats posed by terrorism in Nigeria and beyond, recognizing that combating terrorism requires not only effective security measures but also widespread public participation.
Major General Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), formally disclosed these plans during the final validation session for the draft strategy held in Abuja yesterday.
He emphasized that the updated framework is carefully structured to enhance collaboration between various security agencies, improve operational efficiency, and importantly, encourage active involvement from the public. The aim is to create a unified front where governmental bodies and communities work hand-in-hand to prevent and respond swiftly and effectively to terrorist activities.
Speaking on the significance of the strategy, Major General Laka noted, “The revision of the national counter-terrorism strategy is more than just an update; it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach in tackling terrorism.
“This means that every part of the government, along with the entire society, plays a vital role. The strategy emphasizes preventive measures just as strongly as reactive ones. It enhances mechanisms for inter-agency coordination and integrates principles of resilience, inclusivity, and community participation directly into our national security framework.”
The process of reviewing and updating the strategy began in February 2025 and has involved an extensive series of consultations to ensure a well-rounded and inclusive approach. Multiple stages of stakeholder engagement were conducted, including interactive workshops, detailed committee evaluations, and wide-ranging discussions involving key ministries, departments, and agencies.
Beyond governmental participants, civil society organizations, academia, and international partners were actively engaged to provide their insights and expertise. This multi-sectoral consultation was designed to guarantee that the strategy not only aligns with Nigeria’s national security priorities but also complies with global best practices and international standards in counter-terrorism.
Major General Laka further explained the importance of the final validation workshop, saying, “The purpose of this workshop is to rigorously review the draft strategy to ensure that it is clear, realistic, and fully implementable. We want to make certain that every section of the document addresses the current and emerging threats we face as a nation. More importantly, this is a document for all of us — a strategy that all stakeholders can confidently endorse and take ownership of, ensuring unity and purpose in its implementation.”
Contributing to the discussion, Commodore Ahmad Madawaki, Director of Policy and Strategy at the NCTC, underscored the necessity of comprehensive coordination in counter-terrorism efforts.
“The whole-of-government approach guarantees that all government entities are working in harmony, ensuring our counter-terrorism efforts are not fragmented but integrated, coordinated, and effective,” he said.
He also elaborated on the essential role of societal involvement, highlighting that, “The whole-of-society dimension is about actively engaging communities, civil society groups, and the private sector. Building trust within communities, promoting social cohesion, and countering extremist narratives are vital components in our fight against terrorism. This inclusive engagement helps to identify and address the root causes of extremism and fosters a sense of shared responsibility for national security.”
Commodore Madawaki emphasized that a clear understanding of roles and responsibilities across all levels of government and society is critical. “Every ministry, department, and agency must be aware of their specific roles once the strategy is officially launched. Moreover, the involvement of grassroots communities is absolutely indispensable. We are committed to ensuring that state and local governments play an active role, particularly in the later stages of the strategy’s implementation and review process,” he explained.
Commodore Madawaki highlighted the international dimension of counter-terrorism, noting, “Terrorism is a complex global phenomenon that transcends national borders. It demands strong international cooperation, partnerships, and support. The outcomes of the work we undertake here will reverberate far beyond this room, influencing regional stability and global security.”
This revised National Counter-Terrorism Strategy 2025 marks a pivotal step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism more effectively. By emphasizing unity across government institutions and society, the strategy aims to create a resilient and proactive framework that not only addresses immediate security challenges but also builds the foundations for long-term peace, stability, and development.