Nigeria's Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has called for enhanced regional cooperation to combat terrorism in West Africa and the Sahel, delivering the appeal at the opening of the Regional Conference on Combating Emerging Terrorist Groups and Strengthening Sustainable Security in Abuja on September 3, 2025, reinforcing Nigeria’s leadership in the fight.

Speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the National Counterterrorism Centre, Badaru aligned Nigeria’s strategy with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which he says is prioritizing peace as a foundation for prosperity.

“Terrorism, insurgency and insecurity are existential challenges that endanger our people, our economies, and our shared future.” - Badaru

The minister outlined three key priorities: integrating real-time intelligence to disrupt terror networks, operationalizing the ECOWAS Standby Force with harmonized legal frameworks, and addressing radicalization through education, youth empowerment, and accountable governance. “Security must strengthen legitimacy, not weaken it,” he emphasized.

Badaru highlighted Nigeria’s efforts, noting the Armed Forces have dismantled multiple terrorist strongholds, leading to thousands of surrenders under Operation Safe Corridor, which supports rehabilitation and reintegration. Nigeria also backs the Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad Basin and adheres to the Yaoundé Code of Conduct for land and maritime security.

He acknowledged international support from the United Nations, African Union, and European Union, urging further investment in intelligence platforms, ECOWAS Force training, and socio-economic programs to curb extremist recruitment.

The minister stressed the need for a practical roadmap from the conference, stating, “This conference must not end with words. It must deliver an actionable roadmap that strengthens partnerships, deepens collaboration and secures a future of peace, stability and shared prosperity.” He underscored the urgency of united action, given porous borders and governance gaps exploited by terrorists.

The initiative faces challenges, including funding and coordination across diverse nations, but it positions Nigeria as a regional leader, with potential to shape security policies across the ECOWAS region.