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The African Union (AU) Commission and the Federal Republic of Nigeria represented by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) of Nigeria signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in combating terrorism and violent extremism across Africa.
The MoU establishes a strategic framework to enhance cooperation and coordination between the AU and the NCTC on counterterrorism efforts aligning national, regional continental strategies that will strengthen technical capacity and harmonise Nigeria’s counterterrorism polices with AU frameworks.
The MoU was signed by Amb. Bankole Adeoye, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, and Major General Adamu Garba Laka, National Coordinator of the NCTC.
The landmark agreement underscores the commitment of the African Union and Nigeria to address the growing threat of terrorism through coordinated strategies, capacity building, and information sharing.
Speaking during the signing ceremony at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa, Amb. Adeoye thanked Nigeria for being a key anchor state for counter-terrorism efforts across West Africa and the Sahel.
He stated that “the region and beyond across the continent had greatly benefitted from the NCTC’s leadership and expertise, particularly the Centre’s state-of-the-art facilities and advanced technology, which have contributed to regional and continental security.”
“The NCTC desire to partner with the African Union marks a significant step by Nigeria that is aligned with the Abuja Process Declaration of April 2024,” Major General Garba Laka said.
“By collaborating with the African Union, we intend to demonstrate Nigeria’s strategic commitment in combating terrorism and violent extremism through enhance regional capacities and strategies with continental frameworks to ensure peace and security across Africa, ” Laka said.
The MOU, which takes effect today will be implemented by the African Union Counter-terrorism Centre (AUCTC) and Nigeria’s National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).
The agreement focuses on aligning NCTC initiatives with African Union counterterrorism efforts, including supporting regional initiatives and task forces, such as the Nouakchott Process, the Accra Initiative, UFL-Sahel Joint Force, and the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF).
Key cooperation areas include sharing information in real time, seconding NCTC experts to AUCTC, conducting joint research, and supporting victim recovery, deradicalization, and reintegration.
A Joint Working Group will oversee the progress and implementation of the MOU.