Representatives from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger visited Nigeria’s National Counter Terrorism Centre to strengthen regional collaboration in counterterrorism. The visit, prompted by these nations’ recent withdrawal from ECOWAS, highlighted the increased security challenges faced by Nigeria. Key military leaders emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among Sahel states in combating terrorism and shared a commitment to peace and regional stability.

The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), operating under the Office of the National Security Adviser, has reiterated its dedication to enhancing collaboration with the Alliance of Sahel States, which includes Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. This affirmation took place during a recent visit by delegates from these countries to the NCTC in Abuja, where Maj. Gen. Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator, underscored the significance of regional cooperation for effective counterterrorism measures.

This visit is particularly timely, given the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has raised concerns over increasing regional insecurity. Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, Nigeria’s Chief of the Air Staff, cautioned that this exit escalates the security challenges faced by Nigeria’s military: “The recent withdrawal of the Alliance of Sahel States from ECOWAS has disrupted existing security frameworks.” He further noted the implications for the Multinational Joint Task Force, which is pivotal in combating Boko Haram and ISWAP.

Maj. Gen. Laka emphasized the purpose of the study tour as fostering knowledge exchange and teamwork among security forces. He articulated the necessity for cooperative counterterrorism efforts that facilitate the sharing of resources and expertise. “The challenges we face in countering terrorism are multifaceted and complex, requiring innovative approaches and steadfast determination,” he stated, advocating for a united front to enhance capabilities against terrorism.

Laka also praised the ongoing military collaboration between Nigeria and its neighbors, particularly through the Lake Chad Basin Commission, acknowledging the success of the Multinational Joint Task Force in diminishing Boko Haram’s operational capacity. He reassured that the Nigerian government has adopted a comprehensive strategy that integrates various sectors to combat terrorism effectively.

The Chief of Defence Staff and Chairman of West African Defence Chiefs, Gen. Christopher Musa, will soon visit Mali and Burkina Faso, emphasizing that Nigeria intends to maintain peaceful relations with these countries. He asserted the importance of unity in addressing shared security threats and highlighted the need to curb illegal mining operations that fund terrorism.

Gen. Musa expressed appreciation for the delegation’s presence, stating, “It gladdens my heart to have people from the AES countries here.” He stressed the deep historical and cultural ties among Nigeria, Mali, and Niger, regarding them as more than just neighboring countries. Musa reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace and recalled its historical role in supporting African nations amid crises.

The team lead, Aliyu Gebi, advocated for collective action to strengthen regional security, commending the Nigerian military’s successes against insurgents. He concluded by stressing the need for a harmonious approach to connect kinetic and non-kinetic strategies for achieving peace.

The visit of delegates from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to Nigeria underscores the pressing need for enhanced regional cooperation in the fight against terrorism. With both military and diplomatic engagements strengthening ties, the commitment of nations to collaborate effectively is crucial in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by terrorism in West Africa. Nigeria’s historical role as a peacebroker in the region further reinforces its resolve to foster unity among neighboring countries for collective security.

Original Source: punchng.com

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