NCTC Seeks All- Of -Society Approach To Tackle Security Threats

The National Counter Terrorism Centre NCTC has called for a coordinated all-of-society approach to effectively tackle terrorism, violent extremism, and other security threats confronting Nigeria, stressing that government efforts alone are not sufficient.

The National Coordinator of the Centre Major General Adamu Laka made the call at a Media Parley in Abuja on behalf of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

He emphasised that countering insecurity requires the collective involvement of government institutions, the media, civil society, and the general public, noting that strategic communication and public cooperation remain critical to national security efforts.

According to him, the media occupies a central position within Nigeria’s security architecture by shaping public understanding, promoting national cohesion, and countering extremist narratives through accurate and responsible reporting.

While commending Nigerian journalists for their professionalism, resilience, and commitment to public service, the coordinator urged caution in the handling of sensitive security information.

He warned that premature disclosure of operational details and intelligence-led activities could compromise ongoing operations, endanger lives, and inadvertently aid terrorists and criminal networks.

“Our appeal is not for silence, but for responsibility,” he said, stressing that national security and press freedom are complementary pillars of a democratic society.

The National Coordinator reaffirmed the NCTC’s commitment to sustained engagement with the media through regular briefings, background sessions, and structured information sharing to ensure accurate and contextual reporting that aligns with national security imperatives.

As the country looks ahead to the coming year, he noted that evolving tactics of terrorists, bandits, and organised criminal groups demand stronger coordination, deeper intelligence fusion, and an all-of-society response that denies criminals the publicity they seek while reassuring citizens of the government’s resolve.

Aisha Adesanya, Edited By Grace Namiji