Nigeria’s Counterterrorism Moment: What Must Change Now

President Tinubu (c)

Violent attacks across Nigeria continue to claim lives and undermine public trust. Bombings, kidnappings, and armed raids persist despite laws, military operations, and international attention. The question is no longer whether Nigeria understands the threat. The question is whether the state will enforce its own decisions with discipline and consistency. This article explains the counterterrorism challenge in simple terms and outlines practical steps Nigeria can take now.

Why Designation Matters but Enforcement Matters More

In 2025, Nigeria moved to designate dozens of individuals and organizations as terrorists. The list included not only fighters but also financiers, facilitators, protectors, and legitimizers. This approach reflects modern counterterrorism thinking.

Terrorist violence depends on systems. When funding dries up, logistics fail, and protection networks collapse, attacks decline.

However, designation alone does not stop violence. Enforcement does.

Key enforcement actions include:

• Freezing assets linked to terrorist financing

• Arresting facilitators and logistics coordinators

• Prosecuting protectors who provide cover or intelligence

• Disrupting propaganda and recruitment channels

Therefore, Nigeria must treat enforcement as a national priority, not a selective exercise.

Understanding Terrorism Beyond the Gunman

Many people think terrorism is only about the person holding a weapon. That view is incomplete. Terrorism is an organized process.

The United Nations struggles to agree on a single definition of terrorism. Instead, it condemns methods such as bombings, kidnappings, and attacks on civilians. This focus helps states act against violence without debating ideology.

In practice, terrorism involves:

• Ideological framing that justifies violence

• Financial pipelines that sustain operations

• Social and political cover that enables movement

• Grievances that attract new recruits

Moreover, when violence lasts longer than necessary, citizens begin to suspect tolerance or complicity. That perception damages legitimacy and fuels further radicalization.

Grievances Fuel Recruitment Faster Than Weapons

Security operations can suppress attacks. They cannot end terrorism alone. Recruitment thrives where injustice appears normal.

Common drivers include:

• Youth unemployment and economic exclusion

• Corruption and unequal law enforcement

• Election manipulation and political violence

• Abuse by security forces without accountability

In my opinion, prevention is the most effective counterterrorism tool. Addressing grievances reduces the pool of recruits before violence begins. Fair policing, credible elections, and economic opportunity weaken extremist narratives.

Setting a Clear Agenda for National Leadership

Nigeria cannot outsource its security. Foreign powers act in their own interests. Sustainable security requires national ownership.

President Bola Tinubu has the authority to reset Nigeria’s counterterrorism posture. A clear agenda should include:

1. Consistent enforcement of terrorist designations

2. Professional prosecution without political interference

3. Regional intelligence cooperation across West Africa

4. Protection of civilians and restoration of public trust

However, words must match deeds. When the state signals resolve and fails to act, it invites further attacks.

The Path Forward and How OSRS Can Help

Nigeria faces no simple solution. Nevertheless, disciplined enforcement, preventive governance, and strategic coordination can reduce violence over time. Counterterrorism succeeds when the state acts lawfully, decisively, and consistently.

OGUN Security Research and Strategic Consulting LLC supports governments, institutions, and professionals through policy analysis, counterterrorism strategy, intelligence training, cybersecurity risk assessments, and governance advisory services. We help translate law into action.

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About the Author

Dr. Oludare Ogunlana is a security scholar and practitioner with over 15 years of experience in cybersecurity, intelligence analysis, and counterterrorism. He is the Founder and Principal Consultant of OGUN Security Research and Strategic Consulting LLC, where he advises governments, institutions, and private organizations on security strategy, governance, and risk management.