By Atoyebi Nike
The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its support for Nigeria’s updated Policy Framework and National Action Plan for Preventing and Countering Violence, pledging partnership in tackling insurgency and violent extremism.
Speaking at a validation workshop in Abuja, EU Ambassador to Nigeria Gautier Mignot said the revised plan was crucial in addressing drivers of violence while protecting citizens’ rights. He stressed the importance of community-level implementation and youth empowerment to prevent extremist recruitment.
National Counter Terrorism Centre Coordinator, representing National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, described the review as a shared vision anchored on prevention and resilience. He noted that since the framework’s launch in 2017, Nigeria has strengthened non-kinetic approaches including counter-narratives, early warning systems, and community engagement.
The updated framework incorporates gender, youth, human rights, and climate perspectives. Supported technically by the EU’s STRIVE Global programme and Hedayah, it is expected to guide collaboration between government, civil society, and international partners.
