Nuhu RibaduNational Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has said that Nigeria is now dealing decisively with all the financiers and sponsors of Boko Haram and other violent extremism.
Speaking today, April 22, at the African High-level Meeting on Counter-Terrorism in Abuja, Ribadu said that intelligence gathering is at highest peak through enhanced inter-agency collaboration and confidence building with citizens.
He said Nigeria is strengthening its judiciary to effectively deal with cases of terrorism and has earmarked a fund to boost counter-terrorism efforts.
“We have resumed the prosecution of Boko Haram suspects across the country.”
The NSA observed that terrorism in Africa is driven by a number of factors, including organized crime, foreign terrorist financing and training, poverty, inequality, prolonged conflicts, among others.
This was even as the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ms. Amina Mohammed suggested that one of the ways to remove the causes of terrorism on the continent is for Africa to work to rebuild its social contract with its citizens, and deliver good governance.
“Rebuilding the social contract is necessary for recovery.
“We must pay attention to women and girls who are greatly impacted by terrorism, including the youth. Providing support and healing for those impacted by terrorism is important.”
Also, the Under- Secretary-General of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), Vladimir Voronkov commended Nigeria for its leadership in counter-terrorism in Africa and for hosting the meeting.
“Terrorism is a threat to peace and security, particularly in Africa where its impact is mostly felt. The success of UNOCT in Africa hinges on its support for Africa-led programmes and solutions.”
