The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, on Monday officially launched Nigeria’s Counter-Terrorism Strategic Plan for 2025–2030. He said Nigerians deserve to live their lives without fear.
The plan was created by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre under the Office of the National Security Adviser.
During his speech, Akpabio described the launch as an important moment for the country. He said it shows Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring peace and safety for all citizens.
According to him, every generation must answer important questions, and for Nigeria today, the key question is how to secure the nation and guarantee peace and stability.
He said the new plan provides a clear path for improving security agencies, modernising the country’s security system, and building stronger partnerships with both local and international stakeholders.
Akpabio explained that insecurity affects development because investors pull out, schools close, and farmers leave their farms. This, he said, makes a long-term and well-structured plan very important.
He noted that while security is the responsibility of all arms of government, the National Assembly must provide strong laws, proper oversight, and funding for security agencies. Akpabio added that the 10th National Assembly has already passed major laws on defence, policing, cyber security, intelligence, and counter-terrorism.
He stressed that laws alone cannot secure the country; there must be investment in people, technology, training, and long-term strategies. The new plan, he said, is designed to deliver measurable results.
Akpabio also highlighted that security is not only the job of the government. Citizens, communities, traditional leaders, the private sector, and international partners must also play their parts.
At the event, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu represented by Major General Adamu Laka said the plan was developed after extensive research and consultation with many institutions, including security agencies, universities, civil society groups, and international partners.
He added that the goal is to make Nigeria’s National Counter-Terrorism Centre a leading hub for fighting terrorism and violent extremism in West Africa and the Sahel region.
