Nigeria, AU Formalise Agreement on Intelligence Sharing and Counterterrorism Strategy

Nigeria and the African Union (AU) have entered into a formal partnership aimed at improving coordination in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism across Africa.

Both parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Abuja on Monday, setting out areas of cooperation to strengthen security and intelligence frameworks on the continent.

The agreement was signed by AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Amb. Bankole Adeoye, and the National Coordinator of Nigeria’s National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka.

Adeoye highlighted Nigeria’s pivotal role in regional security, noting that the country’s expertise and resources in counterterrorism have supported stability in West Africa and the Sahel.

He described Nigeria as a central partner in the continental fight against insecurity, pointing out that the AU regards the NCTC’s technological infrastructure and leadership as a model for other states.

Laka explained that the deal underscores Nigeria’s dedication to the Abuja Process Declaration of April 2024 and reflects the country’s determination to collaborate more closely with regional partners.

He said the cooperation is designed to harmonise strategies, build stronger capacity and send a clear message of Nigeria’s resolve to pursue lasting peace and stability.

Under the MoU, the AU Counterterrorism Centre (AUCTC) and Nigeria’s NCTC will jointly implement initiatives that include intelligence sharing, deployment of experts, research collaboration, rehabilitation programmes for radicalised individuals, and support systems for victims of terrorism.

The agreement will also back wider AU-led frameworks such as the Nouakchott Process, the Accra Initiative, the UFL-Sahel Joint Force and the Multinational Joint Task Force. A Joint Working Group will oversee the rollout.

This new partnership is expected to create stronger alignment between Nigeria’s operational capabilities and the AU’s continental framework, giving momentum to Africa’s collective counterterrorism response.

It comes at a time of persistent security threats across the region, raising expectations that a more unified approach will enhance the effectiveness of ongoing efforts.