|By Chinwendu Nwani
Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Monday unveiled the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) Strategic Plan 2025–2030, describing the document as a defining step in Nigeria’s effort to reinforce national security and defeat terrorism.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja, Akpabio said the new plan arrived at a critical moment, aligning with the Federal Government’s resolve to dismantle terror networks and build a more resilient nation. The event attracted top government officials, security chiefs, diplomats, private-sector executives and development partners.
Akpabio said the five-year strategy underscores Nigeria’s determination to modernise its security architecture and protect citizens from increasingly complex threats. He lamented that insecurity has stalled development, disrupted schools, frightened away investors and weakened communities.
According to him, the strategy “provides a disciplined framework to transform institutions, integrate advanced technology, improve intelligence coordination and strengthen collaboration across government and society.” He urged sustained investment in technology, personnel and capacity building.
The Senate President highlighted three pillars of the plan: boosting national resilience through early-warning systems and community intelligence; deploying modern tools such as drones and cybersecurity platforms; and expanding regional and international cooperation against transnational threats. He also emphasised stronger private-sector partnerships to finance security initiatives and assist victims of terrorism.
Akpabio assured that the National Assembly would enforce transparency in such collaborations and closely track implementation. “The Strategic Plan is Nigeria’s promise not to yield to fear or insecurity,” he said, calling on citizens, traditional rulers, civil society, youth groups, the private sector and global partners to unite in safeguarding the country.
National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, represented by NCTC National Coordinator Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said the plan draws on over two decades of counter-insurgency experience and provides a coordinated, research-driven roadmap. He identified unemployment, drug abuse and lack of opportunities as major drivers of violent extremism.
Ribadu highlighted programmes such as the Seeds of Hope initiative, which supports the rehabilitation of terrorism victims through agriculture and livelihood empowerment. He added that the plan aims to strengthen intelligence, operations, legal frameworks, judicial processes, strategic communication and national resilience, positioning Nigeria as a regional leader in counter-terrorism.
