The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have taken a significant step in the fight against terrorism through the control of chemicals, drugs, and illegal drug trade.
The collaboration, formalized by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in Abuja, aims to disrupt the supply chains that support terrorist activities in the country.
The national coordinator of the NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, emphasized that terrorism remains a serious threat to Nigeria’s security, stability, and economic growth.
To counter this, the federal government has ramped up efforts by enhancing cooperation across multiple agencies.
He noted that controlling access to certain chemicals, particularly those used in manufacturing explosives, is a critical component of counter-terrorism strategy.
Laka highlighted the importance of the MoU with NAFDAC, explaining that by monitoring and controlling these substances, authorities would be better positioned to prevent non-state actors from using them to produce dangerous materials.
This collaboration is part of a broader effort to dismantle terrorist financing networks and safeguard communities from violent extremism.
The NCTC’s partnership with NAFDAC also extends to improving intelligence sharing, enhancing joint operations, and bolstering capacity-building efforts.
According to Laka, the combined expertise of the two agencies will significantly strengthen the country’s ability to prevent terrorism, while also working to counter radicalization.
NAFDAC’s Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, affirmed the agency’s commitment to the partnership.
She expressed optimism that this collaboration would lead to a reduction in substance abuse, particularly among young people, and contribute to a broader decrease in violence and extremism in the country.
Through the joint efforts of the NCTC and NAFDAC, Nigeria aims to address the root causes and enablers of terrorism while safeguarding public health and safety.
