NCTC and NECSOB team up to fight terrorism in Nigeria

The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), which works under the Office of the National Security Adviser, has partnered with the Network of Civil Society Organisations in Borno State (NECSOB). This partnership aims to boost cooperation between the government, civil society, and communities to support Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.

This new partnership adds to ongoing efforts with the Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) network and others. It is another step in expanding the civil-security partnership by NCTC, which will help the agencies reach more people through targeted campaigns in the region.

The NCTC has a national role in coordinating Nigeria’s response to counter-terrorism. NECSOB has a wide network with over 200 civil society organisations that work directly with communities in the North-East. Together, they plan to strengthen public trust, promote community resilience, and encourage better cooperation between citizens, civil society, and security actors.

This initiative shows the NCTC’s commitment to a whole-of-society approach to fighting terrorism and violent extremism. While security agencies are crucial in protecting communities, lasting safety relies on active participation from citizens, community leaders, civil society groups, faith organizations, educators, youth groups, and the media. By bringing these voices together, the partnership aims to create stronger, safer, and more resilient communities across Nigeria.

As part of the partnership, the NCTC and NECSOB will work together on public awareness campaigns, community engagement activities, and initiatives that promote peace. They want to strengthen social ties and support national security goals. These activities will highlight positive actions to protect civilians and their livelihoods while encouraging citizens to take part in preventing and fighting terrorism.

General Laka from the NCTC spoke about the partnership, saying:

"This partnership demonstrates the power of collective action. When government institutions, civil society organisations, communities, and the media work together, we can strengthen resilience, build trust and create an environment in which terrorism and violent extremism have less space to operate."

Through this partnership, the NCTC and NECSOB are showing their commitment to working together against terrorism. They recognize that security is a shared responsibility that puts communities at the center of building a safer and more peaceful future for Nigeria.