Nigeria Calls for Trust-Based Global Cooperation to Tackle Evolving Terrorism Threats
Oru Leonard
The Federal Government of Nigeria has urged stronger, trust-driven international collaboration to effectively combat the growing complexity of global terrorism.
This call was made by the Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, during a high-level panel session titled “Countering Terrorism: International Cooperation Reclaimed” at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2026 held in the Republic of Türkiye.
Representing Nigeria, the Defence Minister joined global leaders, policymakers, and security experts to examine the evolving dynamics of terrorism and reinforce the need for coordinated international responses rooted in mutual trust and shared responsibility.
Musa noted that terrorism has become increasingly complex, adaptive, and transnational, driven by decentralised networks, emerging technologies, and illicit financing. He warned that the growing convergence of terrorism, organised crime, and banditry—particularly in fragile regions such as the Sahel—requires urgent and unified global action.
“No country, regardless of its strength or capacity, can confront terrorism alone. Collective security must guide our response,” he stated.
While highlighting the importance of capacity-building, the Minister identified lack of trust in intelligence-sharing mechanisms as a major obstacle to effective international cooperation.
He outlined key milestones in Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts, including measurable gains through sustained military operations, improved intelligence frameworks, and strengthened regional collaboration. Nigeria’s leadership role in initiatives such as the Multinational Joint Task Force, the Regional Intelligence Fusion Unit, and the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services was also emphasized.
According to Musa, Nigeria’s strategy integrates military action with governance reforms, development initiatives, and community engagement to address the root causes of insecurity and foster long-term peace.
He further stressed that effective counterterrorism efforts must be supported by transparent, accountable, and reciprocal intelligence-sharing frameworks that inspire confidence among global partners. With terrorists increasingly leveraging digital tools, encryption, and hybrid criminal networks, he called for faster adoption of technology, enhanced intelligence integration, and deeper collaboration across borders.
In his closing remarks, the Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to global counterterrorism cooperation, noting that unity of purpose and sustained collaboration remain essential to building a safer and more stable world.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support of Nigeria’s national security agenda.
