EU Backs Nigeria’s Strategy To Strengthen National Security

The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its commitment to stand with Nigeria in tackling insurgency by supporting the country’s updated Policy Framework and National Action Plan for Preventing and Countering Violence.

This was disclosed at the validation workshop, convened by the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja, which brought together ministries, security agencies, civil society, academics, faith leaders, and international partners.

According to the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, the revised framework marks a critical step in tackling the drivers of violence while safeguarding citizens’ rights.

The envoy underlined the importance of implementing the strategy at the state and community levels, ensuring rural areas are not left behind, and prioritising youth empowerment programmes to undercut extremist recruitment.

“To conquer the hearts and minds of the population, protecting and respecting fundamental rights is key,” Mignot warned.

Welcoming participants on behalf of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, said the review was more than a technical process; it was the endorsement of a shared vision.

“This is not just about a document. It is about anchoring prevention and resilience as central pillars of Nigeria’s national strategy,” he declared.

He highlighted that since the first framework was launched in 2017, Nigeria has expanded non-kinetic approaches, from early-warning systems and counter-narratives to community engagement and youth empowerment.

The updated plan now integrates gender and youth perspectives, human rights, and climate-related risks.

With the EU’s STRIVE Global programme and Hedayah providing technical support, Nigeria’s PCVE framework is expected to serve as a blueprint for coordinating government, civil society, and international responses to extremist threats.