As part of measures to counter the threat of terrorism to the security and economy of the country, the Nigerian Army has engaged stakeholders in a counter terrorism and counter violent extremism course. The four day course organized by the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC), in partnership with Peace Building and Development Foundation (PBDF), sought to investigate the growth of terrorism and violent extremism and to provide a thorough examination of counter terrorism and counter violent extremism measures.
The participants were trained to be able to analyze the causes of terrorism and extremist ideology as well as critically assess, develop and construct action plans for counter terrorism and counter extremism.
It also aimed at equipping participants with skills to understand ways to empower local partners, in preventing extremism and monitor, evaluate and enhance performance in security service delivery.
The course entitled “Leadership in Counter Terrorism and Counter Violent Extremism Course” (LCTCVEC), provided participants with counter narratives in decimating the activities of terrorists and other violent extremist behaviours.
In his opening remarks, the Director General, Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Maj General Johnny Hamakim emphasized that the tragic events in the North East and other parts of the country by Boko Haram elements and other rebellious groups have shown that in the most horrific terms terrorists can strike anywhere. He said “Terrorists groups are cooperating across the world, transiting borders, using one country to train, another to raise funds and another for safe haven, thus creating a nexus for global Jihad in order to maximize the impact of their activities”.
Gen Hamakim reiterated that the Armed Forces and other security agencies have collectively degraded and disrupted the Boko Haram network, adding that more work still needs to be done as some key operatives are still at large. However, he maintained that it is crucial and imperative for stakeholders in the management of peace and security to optimize the established cooperation that has led to relative peace in the country.
He hoped that the Leadership in Counter Terrorism and Counter Violence Extremism Course will further expand the opportunities for capacity building for the law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, traditional and religious institutions and transnational organization involved in counter terrorism activities.
The high point of the event was the presentation of certificates to the participants and conferment of awards of membership of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre.
