The African Union Counter-Terrorism Centre has pledged stronger collaboration with Nigeria on sustainable peace efforts.
It described the ongoing regional consultation on Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) as a vital step toward breaking the cycle of violence across the continent.
Delivering a goodwill message at a Stakeholders Validation and Review exercise of the Draft National Policy Framework and Strategy for Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintergration (DDR) 2025, the Director of Administration, African Union Counter Terrorism Centre, Dr. Usman Hussain, said; “the initiative reflects a firm regional commitment to peace building, recovery and resilience.”
He noted that the consultation aligns with the African Union’s Peace and Security architecture and continental drive for stability.
According to him, “the process is essential to addressing long standing grievances, halting armed conflicts and strengthening community resistance against terrorism and violent extremism.”
“This consultation stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable peace, enhancing security and promoting recovery,” he said.
Dr Hussain praised Nigeria’s inclusive, participatory approach to the framework development.
He highlighted the engagement of federal and state authorities, security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations and international partners as a strong demonstration of shared national ownership.
“When developed and implemented with due regard to human rights, security and local context, and with meaningful youth involvement, DDR becomes a viable mechanism for stabilisation and successful reintegration,” he emphasised, explaining that the model also prevents former fighters from re-engaging in violence.
Dr Hussain stressed that DDR processes are increasingly critical for restoring trust, rebuilding social cooperation and addressing the root causes exploited by extremist recruiters.
He reaffirmed the AU Counter Terrorism Centre’s commitment to supporting Nigeria with technical expertise, capacity building and knowledge sharing to ensure alignment with international peacebuilding standards.
Commending the leadership of the National Counter Terrorism Centre and the partnership with UK-SPRING, he described the workshop outcome as pivotal to shaping a stronger national and regional DDR mechanism that reinforces stability and community resilience.
He expressed optimism that the framework would produce a contextually grounded strategy capable of improving security, supporting peace efforts and facilitating transition from conflict to sustainable development.
He added that through collaboration, partnership and connectivity, we can build safer communities and facilitate peaceful transitions.
Lateefah Ibrahim