Tinubu to unveil revised counter-terrorism strategy in October, says NCTC

Adamu Laka, coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), says President Bola Tinubu will launch Nigeria’s revised counter-terrorism strategy in October.

Speaking at the third quarter stakeholders’ meeting of NACTEST on Tuesday in Abuja, Laka said the document has been completed and sent to Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser (NSA), for approval.

He said the review, which began in February 2025, was designed to reflect emerging threats, shifting terrorist tactics, and the use of new technologies.

“I am pleased to report that the review process has now reached a decisive milestone,” Laka said.

“The revised draft national counter-terrorism strategy, which incorporates all feedback received during the validation exercise, has been finalised and forwarded to the NSA for approval.

“The final step will be to secure a suitable date for His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu to officially launch the revised national counter-terrorism strategy.

“This launch will mark the culmination of our collective efforts and the beginning of a new phase in our national counterterrorism expedition.”

Laka said the strategy was developed through consultations, workshops, and technical reviews involving government institutions, security agencies, civil society groups, academics, the private sector, and international partners.

He said implementation is the true test of success, adding that the document defines clear roles for stakeholders across five areas: prevent, protect, identify, prepare, and implement.

“The strategy can only succeed if we collectively own it and translate its provisions into practical, coordinated actions,” he said.

“As the National Counter-Terrorism Centre consolidates its position as a regional hub for counterterrorism in West Africa and the Sahel, the implementation of the strategy takes on greater importance.

“Nigeria is being looked upon for leadership, coordination, and innovation in addressing terrorism and violent extremism in the region.

“The revised strategy provides a roadmap for securing our nation and also a model for the subregion. Its success has implications beyond our borders.”

Ahmad Madawaki, director of policy and strategy at the NCTC, said the strategy was developed through an inclusive process that involved ministries, departments, agencies, civil society, the private sector, traditional and religious leaders, and international partners.

He said the centre adopted a “whole of government” and “whole of society” approach in line with the president’s directive to ensure the new strategy is comprehensive and community-driven.

“Hopefully, the next invitation you will get from us is the formal launch of the revised strategy sometime in October by Mr President,” he added.