By Harriet Tornguvan
The Federal Government has called for deeper, trust-based international cooperation to effectively confront the growing complexity of global terrorism.
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, made the appeal while speaking at a high-level panel session titled “Countering Terrorism: International Cooperation Reclaimed” during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2026 held in Türkiye.
Representing Nigeria, the Minister joined global leaders, policymakers, and security experts to deliberate on the shifting dynamics of terrorism and the urgent need for coordinated global responses rooted in mutual trust and shared responsibility.
Musa observed that terrorism has become increasingly sophisticated and transnational, driven by decentralised networks, emerging technologies, and illicit financing channels. He warned that the growing nexus between terrorism, organised crime, and banditry particularly across the Sahel poses a significant threat that requires unified global action.
“No country, regardless of its strength or capacity, can tackle terrorism alone. Collective security must guide our response,” he said.
The Minister identified a lack of trust in intelligence-sharing mechanisms as a major obstacle to effective international cooperation, noting that while capacity-building remains critical, confidence in how shared intelligence is utilised is paramount.
Highlighting Nigeria’s efforts, Musa pointed to measurable progress achieved through sustained military operations, strengthened intelligence systems, and enhanced regional collaboration. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s leadership role in key security platforms, including the Multinational Joint Task Force, the Regional Intelligence Fusion Unit, and the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services.
He further explained that Nigeria’s counterterrorism strategy integrates military action with governance reforms, socio-economic development, and community engagement to address the root causes of insecurity and foster lasting peace.
Musa stressed that combating modern terrorism requires transparent, reciprocal, and accountable intelligence-sharing frameworks capable of building trust among international partners. He also urged countries to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies and improve intelligence integration to outpace terrorists who increasingly exploit digital tools and encrypted platforms.
In his closing remarks, the Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to global counterterrorism efforts, expressing optimism that sustained collaboration would lead to a safer world.
He also commended the continued support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for Nigeria’s national security initiatives.
