The National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has flagged off a national workshop to review Nigeria’s Policy Framework and National Action Plan for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism as part of renewed efforts to strengthen the country’s counter-terrorism strategy.
The pre-review session held at the National Counter Terrorism Centre in Abuja brings together key stakeholders to assess and update Nigeria’s 2017 National Action Plan in light of evolving security threats.
The workshop is part of the Strengthening Resilience to Violent Extremism Global Programme funded by the European Union and implemented by Hedayah a leading international centre for countering violent extremism.
Speaking at the event, Ribadu who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant Idayat Hassan emphasized the need for a proactive and adaptive approach to tackling extremism.
He said extremist groups continue to evolve and exploit new technologies and online platforms making it imperative for Nigeria’s strategies to align with national priorities and global standards.
“Our strategies must be proactive dynamic and aligned with both national priorities and global standards” Ribadu stated.
He stressed the importance of digital literacy community resilience rehabilitation and reintegration efforts as well as strategic communication in responding to extremist threats.
The European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts by providing a €300 million grant targeted at addressing the root causes of terrorism particularly in the North-East and North-West regions.
EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS Gaulter Mignot said the support reflects the EU’s strong partnership with Nigeria in the global fight against violent extremism.
Mignot stated that both Nigeria and the EU are members of the Global Counter Terrorism Forum and the collaboration with GCTF-affiliated organizations like Hedayah highlights the importance of coordinated international efforts.
He added that the conflict in Nigeria’s North-East has had devastating consequences across the Lake Chad Basin beyond the loss of lives and displacement of populations.
While acknowledging the progress made by Nigeria in its counter-terrorism efforts Mignot noted that significant challenges remain and more investment and strategic planning are required.
He commended the Nigerian government’s initiative to update its counter-extremism policy as timely and essential for building an effective national response.
The workshop will inform the next phase of Nigeria’s policy direction as it seeks to enhance its resilience against radicalization and violent extremism.
It is expected to result in an updated and more comprehensive National Action Plan that reflects emerging threats and incorporates lessons learned from past experiences.
Nigeria continues to face complex security challenges particularly in regions affected by Boko Haram and other extremist groups.
The ongoing review of the PCVE framework signals a deliberate shift towards more integrated people-centered approaches that prioritize prevention rehabilitation and reintegration.
The workshop also underscores the growing role of international cooperation in combating violent extremism with the European Union emerging as a major partner in financing and supporting Nigeria’s security infrastructure.
The €300 million grant is part of a broader EU strategy to promote peace stability and development across Africa’s conflict-affected regions.
