Abuja: The African Union (AU) Commission and Nigeria's National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance their collaborative efforts in combating terrorism and violent extremism throughout Africa. This agreement signifies a strategic partnership aimed at bolstering regional security initiatives.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the MoU was endorsed by Amb. Bankole Adeoye, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, and Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the NCTC. Adeoye praised Nigeria for its leadership role in West Africa and the Sahel, highlighting the significant contribution of Nigeria's advanced facilities and expertise at the NCTC to regional and continental security efforts. He expressed pride in formalizing the partnership with Nigeria, calling the country a key anchor state in the fight against terrorism, and acknowledged the NCTC's leadership and technology as benchmarks for counterterrorism efforts in Africa.

Laka emphasized that the MoU reflects Nigeria's commitment to advancing the Abuja Process Declaration of April 2024 and deepening regional collaboration. He stated that by working with the African Union, Nigeria intends to strengthen regional capacities, harmonize strategies, and demonstrate its resolve in ensuring peace and security across the continent.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the MoU will be jointly implemented by the AU Counterterrorism Centre (AUCTC) and Nigeria's NCTC. The areas of cooperation outlined in the MoU include real-time intelligence sharing, secondment of experts, joint research, support for victims of terrorism, and programs on deradicalization and reintegration. Additionally, the MoU will reinforce AU-backed initiatives such as the Nouakchott Process, the Accra Initiative, the UFL-Sahel Joint Force, and the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF). A Joint Working Group will be established to monitor the implementation of the agreement.