The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) has applauded Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal for aligning with federal efforts to address persistent security threats in the state, describing his commitment as a critical step in countering violent extremism in northern Nigeria.

A delegation from the NCTC, led by officials from the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), paid a courtesy visit to the Governor on Thursday at the Government House in Gusau, where discussions centred on strengthening collaboration to combat banditry and terrorism.

According to a statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the Centre offers strategic direction and leadership to Nigeria’s Armed Forces, security, law enforcement, and intelligence agencies in their counter-terrorism operations, in line with the NSA’s national security agenda.

Governor Lawal, in his remarks, welcomed the delegation and underscored the importance of sustained cooperation in the region’s fight against insecurity.
“I’ve consistently maintained that effectively addressing insecurity in Zamfara would resolve 80 per cent of northern Nigeria’s security challenges,” the Governor said. “From the initiatives I’ve seen, we have the tools to confront these threats through genuine consultation and collaboration between the state and the NSA’s office.”

He also expressed readiness to support joint initiatives, particularly with funding from international partners such as the European Union, which has pledged support for regional stabilisation efforts.

“Zamfara is fully prepared to provide counterpart funding,” Lawal said. “Our doors are open to any initiative that brings positive change. We only ask for a clear timeline to monitor progress, and I will assign a dedicated team to liaise with the Counter-Terrorism Centre.”

Leading the federal team, Ambassador Mairo Musa Abbas, who heads the Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) department, stated that the visit was part of a nationwide advocacy campaign commissioned by NSA Nuhu Ribadu and National Counter Terrorism Coordinator, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Garba Laka.

“We are in Zamfara as part of our strategic engagement across the country,” Abbas said. “We thank you for your warm reception and the leadership you offer. We look forward to working closely with your government to ensure Zamfara becomes a beacon of hope in the fight against banditry.”

Zamfara remains one of the states most affected by violent criminal networks, with widespread concerns over bandit attacks, mass abductions, and displaced communities. However, the state’s increased alignment with national security structures may signal a new phase in its long-standing struggle for peace and stability.