Absence of Local Strategy Impeding Fight Against Violent Extremism

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The absence of a localised and domesticated implementation of Nigeria’s Policy Framework and National Action Plan on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PF-NAP) at sub-national and local government levels continues to hinder the country’s fight against terrorism and other forms of violent extremism.

In response, stakeholders are advocating for the localisation of PF-NAP to ensure that interventions reach communities effectively and nip the problem in the bud. 

The initiative is being driven by PCVE-KIRH in collaboration with Nextier, SPRING, UK International Development (FCDO), the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund, and the National Counter Terrorism Centre.

During a virtual forum, state actors, civil society groups, and government representatives, discussed practical steps for implementing the framework at local levels.

In his remarks, Jaye Gaskia, Chair of the PAVE Network, emphasised the need for stronger stakeholder engagement, resource mobilisation, and capacity building to make the framework effective on the ground. 

Participants consistently stressed the importance of sustained collaboration and coordination to tackle violent extremism within communities.

State representatives highlighted progress in developing local action plans but noted persistent challenges such as coordination gaps and bureaucratic delays that slow implementation. 

The forum also underscored the critical role of youth engagement, early warning systems, and community-based approaches in preventing radicalisation.

The meeting called for stronger political will and coordinated action to ensure nationwide implementation of the framework. 

Speaking at the forum, Mangset Iye of the National Counter Terrorism Centre commended ongoing efforts and urged all actors not to lose momentum in executing the revised framework, initially introduced in 2017.

Ndubuisi Nwokolo of Nextier further advocated for a shift towards preventive and development-driven responses, stressing that proactive engagement at the community level is essential to addressing the root causes of violent extremism.