Nigeria has commenced the final validation process of its draft National Framework and Strategy for Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration, marking a strategic move to address security fragility and support former combatants and communities transitioning from conflict.
Zig Diaries Security
Date: Monday, 1December 2025
Time: 12:15 WAT
Location: 📍 Abuja, Nigeria
The National Coordinator, National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser, Major General Adamu Laka while speaking at the validation exercise held at the National Counter Terrorism Centre in Abuja, said the exercise is both timely and strategic, coming at a period when all geo political zones are faced with persistent and evolving security threats.
Represented by the Director Intelligence, Brigadier General Peter Gbor, The Coordinator stated that insecurity in various forms, including terrorism, banditry, secessionist agitations, farmers and herders conflict, militancy and rising incidents of abduction for ransom, continue to undermine national stability, economic growth and social cohesion. New and emerging crimes, he added, require urgent, coordinated and holistic responses.
He emphasised that the Office of the National Security Adviser, through the National Counter Terrorism Centre, in collaboration with the United Kingdom Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria programme, has prioritised the harmonisation of a people centred and sustainable DDR framework.
To this effect, a clear roadmap was developed, including regional consultations conducted across all six geo political zones to engage stakeholders such as security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, socio cultural groups, women and youth representatives, People Living with Disability and selected state and federal ministries and agencies.
Following these consultations, he noted that the framework now under validation signals a significant milestone in counter terrorism efforts, providing structured and sustainable pathways for individuals transitioning away from armed violence and back into productive civilian life. He clarified that DDR is not only about disarmament but offers hope of healing from trauma, dignity through economic empowerment and justice through accountability and reconciliation.
He explained that the purpose of the validation is to review the draft document, identify strengths and gaps and offer expert recommendations to ensure alignment with national priorities, international standards and tested practices.
He reaffirmed that the National Counter Terrorism Centre’s mandate is rooted in the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022 and anchored on national policy frameworks including NACTEST 2016, the National Action Plan for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism 2017 and the National Security Strategy 2019 among others currently under review.
He commended the contributions of government agencies, civil society actors and community leaders and offered special recognition to UK SPRING for sustained support to the project.
He concluded by urging participants to engage with open minds and shared commitment to national resilience, stating that while the task is demanding, it is achievable through harmonisation and collective ownership.
On behalf of the National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu mni and the National Counter Terrorism Centre, he welcomed all participants and wished them a productive and impactful session.
🏷️ Tags: DDR, National Security, Reintegration, Counter Terrorism, Violent Extremism, Peacebuilding, Nigeria
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