ONSA holds validation workshop on countering violent extremism

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has convened a validation workshop on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE).

The two-day event, which brings together key stakeholders from various sectors, aims to strengthen the nation’s efforts in tackling violent extremism through effective policy implementation and strategic communication.

The National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Major General Laka, in his welcome address, emphasised the significance of the workshop in enhancing Nigeria’s capacity to counter violent extremism at all levels of governance.

He acknowledged the support of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and commended participants for their dedication to advancing the nation’s security framework.

“Violent extremism remains one of the most complex security challenges of our time, threatening national stability, institutions, and social cohesion,” the National Coordinator stated. “While the Federal Government has developed the Policy Framework and National Action Plan (PF-NAP) for PCVE, its success depends on deliberate and strategic implementation at the national, state, and local levels.”

The workshop is structured around two key objectives: localization of PCVE strategies and a thorough review of the draft PCVE Guidelines to ensure alignment with national priorities, security realities, and international best practices.

Additionally, stakeholders will validate the Strategic Communication Plan, recognizing the critical role of effective messaging in countering extremist narratives and fostering community engagement.

The National Coordinator reiterated that the workshop is not merely a meeting but a working session that demands active participation and expert recommendations. He highlighted the need for a multi-faceted, multi-stakeholder, and multi-dimensional approach to PCVE, emphasizing that it is not solely a security issue but also a governance, development, and social cohesion challenge.

At the conclusion of the workshop, stakeholders are expected to produce a clear roadmap for the localization of the policy framework, validated PCVE Guidelines, and an endorsed Strategic Communication Plan to guide future implementation.

General Laka officially declared the workshop open, urging participants to engage meaningfully in discussions and collaborate in developing practical, sustainable solutions.

“Together, through coordinated efforts and harmonized strategies, we can build a safer, more resilient Nigeria,” he concluded.