Nigeria and the African Union (AU) are exploring ways to end terrorism in the continent, with a security pact.
The security agreement focuses on intelligence sharing, training, and joint initiatives.
It creates the foundation for a more coordinated African response to terrorism.
Indeed, it is the first agreement of its kind between the AU and a member state.
It was signed at the Regional Conference on Combating Terrorism and Sustainable Security in the ECOWAS Region and the Sahel.
The event was hosted by Nigeria’s Counterterrorism Centre of the Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA).
The Nigeria, AU Security Pact
Furthermore, the high-level summit brought together policymakers, security experts, and international partners.
Together, the addressed rising threats of terrorism, insurgency, and organised crime across West Africa and the Sahel.
Basically, this arrangement offers Nigerian an opportunity to reinforce its position as a key pillar of Africa’s security framework.
Nigeria’s Africa First initiative
Most importantly, the conference was widely hailed as a major diplomatic and security milestone. It underscores President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s drive for “African solutions to African problems”.
Also it highlights Nigeria’s growing influence in shaping continental security dialogue.
Furthermore, the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, stressed the need to balance security with human rights.
He said: “To fight terrorism effectively, the African Union and its partners are saying clearly that the mainstreaming of human rights is central to the fight against terrorism”.
Have You Read: AUC Welcomes New UN Roadmap For Libya
Also, the National Coordinator of Nigeria’s Counterterrorism Centre, Major-General Adamu-Garba Laka, described the agreement as a landmark step in collective resilience.
“This agreement represents shared goals, mutual support, and effective cooperation.
“By forging a united front against terrorism, we are better equipped to confront this multifaceted challenge and uphold the safety and security of our nations,” he declared.
Nigeria’s Rising Role
For Nigeria, the MoU signals a decisive shift.
Furthermore, for years Nigeria focused on its own internal battles against violent extremism.
Now, it is positioning itself as a continental anchor and a trusted global partner in counterterrorism efforts.
Meanwhile, as instability continues to spread across parts of West Africa and the Sahel, Nigeria’s assertive diplomacy and commitment to collaborative security frameworks are drawing recognition and commendation from the international community.
About the Author
