Centre,CSOs Deepen Partnership Against Violent Extremism

National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Network of Civil Society Organisations in Borno State (NECSOB) have strengthened strategic partnership to enhance cooperation between the government, the civil society and communities in support of Nigeria’s efforts to prevent and counter terrorism.

A statement by the executive director of NECSOB, Abubakar Abdullahi Suleiman, said the partnership alongside existing efforts with the Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) network and others, marked another milestone in the expansion of existing civil-security partnership by NCTC, boosting reach of the agencies in region specific campaigns.

According to him, the partnership brings together the NCTC’s national leadership role in coordinating Nigeria’s counter-terrorism response and NECSOB’s extensive network of more than 200 civil society organisations working directly with communities across the North-East.

“Together, the two organisations will work to strengthen public trust, promote community resilience and encourage greater cooperation between citizens, civil society and security actors.”

He explained that the initiative reflects the NCTC’s commitment to a whole-of-society approach to countering terrorism and violent extremism.

Abubakar added that while security agencies play a vital role in protecting communities, lasting security depends on the active participation of citizens, community leaders, civil society organisations, faith groups, educators, youth organisations and the media.

“By bringing these voices together, the partnership seeks to build stronger, safer and more resilient communities across Nigeria,” he added.

He reiterated that the NCTC and NECSOB will collaborate on public awareness campaigns, community engagement activities and initiatives designed to promote peace, strengthen social cohesion and support national security objectives.

These activities according to him, will showcase positive efforts to protect civilians, livelihoods and encourage citizens to play an active role in preventing and countering terrorism. The National Coordinator of NCTC General Adamu Laka said “This partnership demonstrates the power of collective action. When government institutions, civil society organisations, communities and the media work together, we can strengthen resilience, build trust and create an environment in which terrorism and violent extremism have less space to operate.”

Through this partnership, the NCTC and NECSOB are reaffirming their commitment to a united national effort against terrorism, one that recognises security as a shared responsibility and places communities at the heart of building a safer and more peaceful future for Nigeria.