To further bolster counterterrorism efforts in the nation, the Federal Government, through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and the United Nations Office of Counter Terrorism (UNOCT) have signed Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs).
The agreements were signed on Wednesday in Abuja, according to a statement from Mr. Zakari Mijinyawa, Head of Strategic Communications at ONSA.
The documents, in Mijinyawa’s opinion, would help Nigeria and the rest of the globe in their efforts to tackle the worldwide threat of terrorism, which is still one of the most difficult problems confronting international peace, security, and stability.
He said the parties also promised to keep working together to find, gather, and share lessons learned and good practises, as well as to explore new prospects through encouraging partnership and communication through the creation of capacity building activities.
The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, was quoted in the announcement as stating that the two MoUs marked a significant turning point in solidifying Nigeria’s collaboration with UNOCT for increased joint counterterrorism activities.
Retired Rear Adm. Yaminu Musa, National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), acted as Ribadu’s representative.
The UN Under-Secretary-General for Counter-Terrorism, Mr. Vladimir Voronkov, was also quoted as saying that the MoUs envisioned further cooperation in a number of areas, including preventing terrorist travel, preventing the financing of terrorism, enhancing border and maritime security, and providing counterterrorism training in Nigeria.
The signing event was also attended by the leaders of significant implementing Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). (NAN)
