Defence Ministers team up, plan strategies to end terrorism

Defence Ministers of Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) has vowed to boost collaboration against terrorism.

Since the emergence of Boko Haram in 2009 in the North-East, Nigeria has formed a coalition from many fronts to combat the deadly group which has over time expanded its atrocities to other parts of Northern states.

The increasing menace of Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), Boko Haram and other emerging security threats, such as banditry and kidnapping, necessitated growing defence bilateral relationship between Nigeria and other countries to combat the menace.

One of such is the IMCTC formed by Saudi Arabia in December, 2015, to bring together countries with common interests to embark on a united fight against terrorism and terrorist organisations.

A meeting of Defence Ministers took place on February 3, 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to discuss strategy, initiative, and future plans to coordinate, as well as support military operations against terrorism and counter terrorism financing and ideology.

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, who was in attendance with fellow defence ministers discussed strategies and shared intelligence in a bid to dismantle terrorist networks and disrupt their operations in Nigeria and the Sahel region.

Sources at the minister’s office disclosed that the assembly focused on strengthening ties and forging a united front to combat the escalating threat of terrorism worldwide effectively.

A source said, “Defence Ministers from up to 34 nations convened and discussed a more collaborative approach, recognising that terrorism is not confined by borders and thus requires a multinational response.

“The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, told them that, ‘The threat of terrorism continues to evolve, becoming more complex and widespread. It is imperative that we, as a coalition, stand side by side, combining our resources and expertise to protect our nations and maintain global security. Pertinently, it is worthy to reinforce Nigeria’s commitment and the need for deeper level of partnership in the areas of intelligence sharing, technical support and training for enhance regional and national security.’

“Key outcomes from the meeting include enhanced intelligence sharing, joint military training exercises, counter-terrorism financing and humanitarian support coordination.

“The meeting concluded with a unified declaration that the coalition will take all necessary measures to prevent acts of terrorism and to protect the lives and freedoms of individuals worldwide.

“The ministers pledged ongoing support and cooperation, stating that only through solidarity can the global community hope to eliminate the scourge of terrorism.”

The participants were also said to have discussed the objectives of the initiatives and their role in supporting member countries in their fight against terrorism, violence and extremism.

Nigeria was represented at the second meeting of Defence ministers by the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle.

The Minister, who was a former Governor of Zamfara State, which has been one of the hotbeds of banditry and terrorism in recent times, brought his experience to bear in his presentation at the coalition.

The Minister presented  real life experience of Nigeria to the audience, with the hope of finding a lasting solution to Nigeria’s security challenges.