The federal government is set to review the Policy Framework and National Action Plan (PF-NAP) on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) in the country.
A critical stakeholders’ consultative meeting for the review of the Policy Framework and National Action Plan for PCVE has already begun at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Abuja.
Violent extremism has been identified as one of the most complex security challenges that threatens Nigeria’s national security, by weakening the very fabric of the country’s communities, institutions, and social cohesion.
Read Also: Court declines Anyanwu’s request to stop INEC from dealing with PDP without him
Speaking at the meeting, the National Coordinator of NCT, Maj-Gen Adamu Garba Laka, said Nigeria has made significant strides in implementing various PCVE programmes and initiatives, since PF-NAP adoption in 2017.
He said: “Our multi-sectoral, whole-of-government, and whole-of-society approach has enabled collaboration between government, civil society, and international partners, leading to impactful interventions at the national, state, and sub-national levels.
“Despite the progress, challenges remain, and the need for a stronger strategic and adaptive framework that is inclusive has become even more apparent.
“Looking ahead, our focus is on strengthening the institutionalization of PCVE through enhanced stakeholder engagement, coordination, and effective change management. This aligns with our vision for NCTC-ONSA to become a regional Centre of Excellence in preventing and countering violent extremism.
“This vision also resonates with our international partners who emphasise sustainable, locally-led, and collaborative approaches to addressing violent extremism.”
Earlier in her remarks, the Director PCVE in the NCTC, Amb. Mairo Musa Abbas said the primary objective of the meeting was to engage critical stakeholders in the review process of the existing PF-NAP,
She said the key focus areas for the PF-NAP review include Assessing the Implementation of the 2017 PF-NAP, Institutionalizing Success Stories, Enhancing Coordination and Stakeholder Engagement, Strengthening Community Ownership and Local Action Plans, Aligning with Regional and International Best Practices, and developing a Strategic Communications Approach.