Nigeria Boosts Anti-Terrorism Financing Efforts with Establishment of National Counter Terrorism Centre
Nigeria has taken a significant step towards strengthening its counter-terrorism efforts by establishing the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC). This move comes on the heels of the passage of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act in 2022.
Coordinating Counter-Terrorism Efforts
The NCTC is designed to coordinate counter-terrorism policies, strategies, plans, and support with the aim of achieving Nigeria’s counter-terrorism objectives. This Centre will play a crucial role in coordinating anti-terrorist financing activities within Nigeria, as well as serving as a hub for regional counter-terrorism programs and activities across West Africa.
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate counter-terrorism policies, strategies, plans, and support
- Serve as a hub for regional counter-terrorism programs and activities across West Africa
- Partner with local and international stakeholders to build effective collaboration and strengthen regional efforts against terrorism
Building on Existing Initiatives
The establishment of the NCTC comes after a series of national security strategies and frameworks have been implemented, including:
National Counter Terrorism Strategy (NACTEST) 2016
Policy Framework and National Action Plan for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism 2017
National Security Strategy 2019
These initiatives have significantly enhanced the Centre’s role as a value-adding entity in Nigeria’s national counter-terrorism efforts.
Strengthening Regional Efforts
The NCTC will partner with local and international stakeholders to build effective collaboration and strengthen regional efforts against terrorism. This partnership will be critical in tackling the scourge of terrorism financing in Nigeria and beyond.
Commitment to Combating Terrorism
Nigeria’s decision to establish the NCTC reflects its commitment to tackling the scourge of terrorism and improving its capacity to prevent and respond to terrorist threats. With its new mandate, the Centre is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the fight against terrorism financing in Nigeria and beyond.