The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Adviser, has led the Nigerian delegation to the 5th High-Level Meeting of the Heads of Counterterrorism and Security Agencies/Marrakech Platform held in El Jadida, Morocco, reaffirming the country’s commitment to strengthening regional and international cooperation in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
The high-level gathering brought together security leaders, policymakers, intelligence officials, and counterterrorism experts from across Africa and other partner nations to review emerging security threats, exchange intelligence, and develop coordinated strategies for addressing terrorism and organised crime across the continent.
Furthermore, Nigeria’s participation reflects the Federal Government’s determination to deepen collaboration with international partners while enhancing national and regional security through collective action and information sharing.
Regional Cooperation Remains Essential
The Nigerian delegation emphasised that terrorism has evolved into a transnational challenge that requires stronger partnerships among nations, security institutions, and international organisations.
According to officials, extremist groups continue to exploit porous borders, technological advancements, and illegal financial networks to expand their operations across different regions. Consequently, no single country can effectively address these threats without sustained cooperation and coordinated security responses.
Moreover, intelligence sharing and joint operational planning remain critical tools for disrupting terrorist financing, dismantling criminal networks, and preventing attacks before they occur.
Strengthening Intelligence and Capacity Building
The meeting also provided an opportunity for participating countries to discuss innovative approaches to intelligence gathering, cybersecurity, border management, and capacity development for security agencies.
Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to improving intelligence capabilities through technology-driven solutions, specialised training, and stronger collaboration among domestic and international security institutions.
In addition, participants explored strategies for enhancing early warning systems and strengthening institutional resilience against evolving terrorist threats that increasingly exploit digital platforms and modern communication technologies.
Collective Action Against Violent Extremism
Delegates agreed that military operations alone cannot eliminate terrorism permanently without addressing the underlying conditions that fuel radicalisation and violent extremism.
Consequently, discussions highlighted the importance of education, youth empowerment, community engagement, economic inclusion, and strategic communication in preventing extremist recruitment and promoting social stability.
Furthermore, stronger partnerships between governments, civil society organisations, religious institutions, and local communities were identified as essential components of comprehensive counterterrorism strategies capable of delivering lasting results.
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to National Security
The Nigerian delegation reiterated the country’s commitment to supporting regional initiatives aimed at combating terrorism, insurgency, kidnapping, and other transnational security threats affecting Africa.
Officials noted that Nigeria has continued to strengthen collaboration among the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, law enforcement institutions, and regional partners to improve operational effectiveness and protect citizens from criminal activities.
Moreover, investments in surveillance technology, intelligence infrastructure, and security sector reforms continue to enhance the country’s capacity to respond to emerging threats while strengthening border security and regional stability.
Building a Safer and More Secure Africa
The participation of the Nigerian delegation at the 5th High-Level Meeting of the Heads of Counterterrorism and Security Agencies/Marrakech Platform demonstrates the country’s commitment to collective security and international cooperation.
Through sustained collaboration, intelligence sharing, and capacity development, African nations can strengthen their ability to confront terrorism and organised crime while promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development across the continent.
As global security challenges continue to evolve, Nigeria remains committed to working with regional and international partners to develop effective counterterrorism strategies that protect lives, strengthen democratic institutions, and create a safer environment for economic growth and social progress throughout Africa.
