speech on terrorism in nigeria

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Full text of tinubu’s speech at african counter-terrorism meeting.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on African leaders to unite and fight terrorism and other threats.

He stated this on Monday at the opening of the African high-level meeting on counter-terrorism held at the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) in Abuja.

The high-level meeting, which was titled “Strengthening regional cooperation and Institution building to address the evolving threat of terrorism in Africa,” was attended by some African leaders and other dignitaries.

He said: “ With deep respect and appreciation for your commitment to ending this threat to the peace and well-being of our continent and its people, I thank you for honouring our invitation to participate in this High-level Counter-Terrorism Meeting.

“In joining us today, you have demonstrated your understanding of the urgency of the current situation and the priority it must be given above other matters. Again, I thank you for your valuable presence and your contributions to fighting the scourge of terrorism.

“Terrorism snipes at the very fabric of the tranquil, prosperous and just societies we seek to build for ourselves and our children. Terror cannot co-exist in the same space as democracy and good governance, just as darkness and light cannot endure in the same room at the same time.

“This violent threat seeks to frighten the farmer from his field, children from their schools, women from the marketplace and families from their very homes. It wants the city dweller to cower and businesses to close. It craves despotism and suppression not democracy and enlightened society. Its goal is to cause such havoc that we doubt our democratic principles, putting societies and governments into such confusion and disarray that we begin fighting among ourselves instead of fighting the very thing that seeks our destruction.

“Already terrorism has taken too many lives and delayed our better future for too long. While terrorism troubles us greatly at the moment, we do well by remembering terrorism is not of Africa. We must tell this imported evil that wants to bend and break us, that it shall do neither. Instead of making us bow, we shall banish it.

“And how do we banish it? Terrorism’s harm is felt far and wide for the very reason that it has no respect for national boundaries, ethnic bloodlines or religious creeds. We must, therefore, fight this threat together, combining determined national efforts with well-tailored regional and international collaboration.

“The fight against terrorism requires a comprehensive approach. We must address the root causes of extremism, such as poverty, marginalization, and social injustice. However, this important fact should not become empty rhetoric, devoid of meaning or action.

“While we seek to address the root causes of terrorism, we must also attack the roots that feed this evil branch. Evolving from the tactics of yesterday, terrorism is becoming a greater threat as it perfects ways to continuously finance, re-equip and re-supply itself for its sinister mission.

“Not only does it kidnap people, it kidnaps precious resources. Billions upon billions of dollars that legitimate governments should be using to sculpt better societies by providing education, health care and food for its people now go to pay for weapons and mayhem.

“Look at the illegal mining that plagues so many of our nations today. Those who think illegal mining has no connection with financing terrorism are sorely mistaken. The international community has both the moral and legal obligation to help in this cause because it is outside money not African money that fuels the illegal operations. We shall be knocking on this door of the international community to answer this call for justice, peace and fair play.

“Key to our collective efforts against terrorism is the urgent need for a fully operational Regional Counter-Terrorism Centre. This centre will serve as a hub for intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and capacity building throughout our region.

“Additionally, we must strengthen existing counter-terrorism structures such as the Regional Intelligence Fusion Unit (RIFU) in Abuja, the African Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism (ACSRT) in Algiers and the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa (CISSA) in Addis Ababa.

“A Regional Standby Force that includes tackling terrorism as part of its mandate must not be abandoned. I am mindful of the funding, legal and logistical complexities that face the proper establishment of such a force.

“However, with a prudent and clearly defined mandate that accords with the international law and respects national sovereignty such a force can serve as a rapid deployment mechanism, capable of swiftly responding to major threats and bolstering the security of our region. Such a force can stand as a strong deterrent to large scale and protracted terrorist operations and the capture, occupation or disruption of strategic land and resources. We must continue to make careful yet meaningful progress toward this goal.

“Establishing an all-inclusive African Union Ministerial Committee on Counter-Terrorism is also a high priority as envisaged in the Declaration of the 16th Extraordinary Summit of the African Union Assembly two years ago in May 2022. This would ensure that a forum of high-level government officials meets regularly to assess our counter-terrorism efforts and provide guidance on how to improve.

“For its part, Nigeria remains firmly committed to fighting terrorism and violent extremism. They are our most urgent national security threat. Our counter-terrorism capabilities have been enhanced through the enactment of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, establishing the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).

“We have and will continue to take bold steps forward in safeguarding our nation and the wider region. Dedicated to coordinating and implementing counter-terrorism strategies, the NCTC significantly enhances our capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to terrorist threats. The Centre has become a platform; fostering greater collaboration among stakeholders and promoting synergy in our approach to fighting terrorism.

“Similarly, our security forces continue to demonstrate courage and dedication in the fight against terrorism, often at great personal risk. I am grateful to the selfless work and sacrifice of these patriotic men and women. They are the best of the best.

“I must also mention the ongoing need to halt the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) on the continent. No one state can solve this problem for itself. It requires continuous and concerted action by all of us.

“We need to reposition our regional organisations and build the capacity of our national institutions to effectively address this element of terrorism and violent extremism.

“Nigeria is committed to working with our regional partners to strengthen arms control measures, enhance border security, and disrupt the illicit trafficking networks that fuel terrorism and organized crime.

“In closing, let me state that we must make this meeting historic and productive. We must show our respective populations that we, as leaders, we must do more than speak nice words, we must leave here with real results.

“As leaders, let us show our people that their safety and welfare is paramount. May this conference be succinct and to the point. Let us keep rhetoric to a minimum.

“Let us be focused and dedicated to pinpointing and embarking on the meaningful and strong action needed to win the day and free our continent of violent extremists.

“May we do everything that is required of us to defeat this challenge so that five, ten or twenty years from now it is historians who will be meeting to discuss how today became a major turning point in the African continent’s defeat of the terrorist scourge.

“Once again, I thank you for honouring my invitation. I urge you to work hard but to also enjoy the hospitality and beauty of Abuja, our capital city. May God bless our endeavours here today.”

Ige Olugbenga is a fine-grained journalist. He loves the smell of a good lead and has a penchant for finding out something nobody else knows.

Full Text Of Tinubu’s Speech At African Counter-terrorism Meeting

by Victor E · April 22, 2024

He said: “With deep respect and appreciation for your commitment to ending this threat to the peace and well-being of our continent and its people, I thank you for honouring our invitation to participate in this High-level Counter-Terrorism Meeting.

“We need to reposition our regional organisations and build the capacity of our national institutions to effectively address this element of terrorism and violent extremism.

“As leaders, let us show our people that their safety and welfare is paramount. May this conference be succinct and to the point. Let us keep rhetoric to a minimum.

“Let us be focused and dedicated to pinpointing and embarking on the meaningful and strong action needed to win the day and free our continent of violent extremists.

“Once again, I thank you for honouring my invitation. I urge you to work hard but to also enjoy the hospitality and beauty of Abuja, our capital city. May God bless our endeavours here today.”

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Remarks of H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat Chairperson of The African Union Commission at the Opening Ceremony of the High-Level African Counter-Terrorism Meeting in Abuja

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Your Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,

Excellencies Heads of State and Government,

Your Excellency Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations and Dear Sister , Your Excellency Omar Aliou Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Honorable Ministers, Ambassadors, Special Envoys,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

First of all, I wish to thank His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for inviting me to participate in this important High-Level Meeting on Counter-Terrorism. I would also like to congratulate the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the legendary hospitality extended to us and the excellent facilities made available for this Conference.

Indeed, the meeting of today is being held at a critical moment for our Continent. Terrorism and Violent extremism are the biggest evils of our time - spreading to all the five Regions of Africa. This is why, in February 2022, I referred to Terrorism as a form of metastasis, especially with the situations obtaining in the Horn of Africa, the Great Lakes Region, the Sahel and

Parts of Northern Africa.

The latest data from the Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism (ACSRT) of the African Union in Algiers reflect a worrisome picture of escalating Terrorism across the Continent. They indicate a substantial increase in both the frequency and lethal nature of the Terrorist attacks in 2023,

with an average of 8 incidents and 44 fatalities daily, compared to a lower average of 4 attacks and 18 victims per day between 2017 and 2021.

Unfortunately, civilians continue to bear the brunt of these heinous acts, with over 7,000 casualties in 2023 alone. Moreover, the Security and Military Sectors have not been spared, experiencing an alarming 190.8% surge in losses in personnel, amounting to over 4,000 fatalities.

At the political level, this situation was and is still being exploited to feed into the negative speech for Unconstitutional Change of Government and for the rejection of our principles of democracy and human rights.

These figures underscore our collective and urgent need to re-evaluate our Counter-Terrorism Strategies to effectively address our vulnerabilities and shortcomings in the face of this growing phenomenon.

Excellencies ,

Enhancing our Strategies for combating Terrorism in Africa demands that we adopt comprehensive approaches. To fully realise the vision articulated at the Malabo Summit on Terrorism in 2022, Member States must translate their commitments into actions.

African Heads of State and Government have strongly reaffirmed their resolve to fight against Terrorism and Violent Extremism, stressing the need for coordinated efforts at Regional and Continental levels. The moment has come to work out an all-encompassing Continental Strategic Plan of Action to effectively fight against Terrorism across Africa.

As I stated repeatedly over the last years, we need an innovative approach to fight against Terrorism.

We cannot understand that UN Missions continue to absorb, every year, billions of Dollars, producing very modest results and that African States are not granted a minimum of resources to counter the tragic spread of Terrorism. In this regard I warmly welcome the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2719 on African-led Peace Missions adopted in December 2023. On behalf of the AU, I want to express our sincere gratitude to all those who supported this positive development.

However, we cannot understand that elsewhere in the world, coalitions to fight against Terrorism were established and that similar efforts are not made in, at least, one of the five Regions in Africa, where the destructive phenomenon is ravaging human lives, infrastructures and institutions.

Why our voices are not heard and heeded? Is it because other peoples and Regions deserve more and better solidarity?

For how long will Africa accept this double standard in the fight against Terrorism? This Conference may miss its objective if it keeps silent over these questions. An innovative approach is crucial as I said. It should include a new model of financing the fight against Terrorism, greater involvement of African institutions and the Civil Society actors. Those National institutions and the Civil society, youths and women, in particular, should be supported by all means to play their irreplaceable role in fighting against Terrorism and Violent extremism.

Excellencies,

This meeting affords us an important opportunity to foster international cooperation. I welcome the goals of this High-Level Meeting, which aim at promoting understanding and cooperation between AU Member States and our international partners. In so doing, we also demonstrate our commitment to

multilateralism, is especially crucial at a time when trust in this fundamental principle is low.

We must explore new ways to enhance regional cooperation, build institutional capacities, improve information sharing, increase multilateral cooperation and mobilise resources.

Within this framework, I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to eradicate Terrorism from West Africa and the entire Continent. The African Union fully supports the ‘Whole of Society and Whole of Government’ Strategy of Nigeria to counter Terrorism and Violent extremism effectively. The leading role of Nigeria in the Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad Region is a further evidence of its commitment to combating Terrorism.

This reminds me of our common action when I was the Minister of Foreign Affairs of my country and personally witnessed the efficiency of this lead role.

In this vein, I would like also to commend Algeria for assuming a leading role in the fight against Terrorism, for which President Tebboune is the AU Champion and stress the need for immediate action.

I welcome the unwavering dedication of ECOWAS and its recent decisive action to accelerate the deployment of the ECOWAS Standby Force in areas impacted by Terrorism. This commitment demonstrates the recognition by the Organization of the urgent need for collective action in the face of this common threat. The deployment of a Standby Force will provide the much-needed support to communities affected by Terrorism and help to enhance Regional security.

Excellencies, As stated earlier, the fight against Terrorism requires a Strategic and collaborative approach. In this regard, initiatives such as the Nouakchott and Djibouti Processes are significant opportunities to enhance our effectiveness in this fight. By prioritising collaborative initiatives and supporting reconstruction, disengagement, reintegration, and reconciliation efforts, we can address the root causes of Terrorism and promote sustainable peace and security. Partnerships, such as the "SD3R" Initiative (Support for the Disengagement, Review, Reintegration, and Reconciliation) of Persons Formerly Associated with Non-State Armed Groups in North East Nigeria, underscore the importance of working together to promote peacebuilding and stability.

It is essential that we continue to support such Initiatives and Mechanisms to tackle Terrorism effectively.

To conclude, Excellencies, I want to extend the appreciation of the African Union to the United Nations. Since the Joint UN–AU Framework for Enhanced Partnership in Peace and Security, signed in 2017, our cooperation has grown stronger. Be it in the Horn of Africa or the Sahel, we are jointly responding to Terrorism.

I want to express our full recognition to the EU and other partners for their significant assistance to our structures and programmes, geared towards strengthening peace and security in Africa.

The mobilisation of all the efforts should encourage us to amplify our fight against these ravaging phenomena.

The time to act is now.

The time for concrete actions is now.

The time for results is now

The time for speeches is over. Even if I just made one!

I thank you for your kind attention.

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High-Level African Counter-Terrorism Summit Kicks off in Abuja, Nigeria

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has, with support from the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), opened the African Counter-Terrorism Summit, with guests including the Presidents of Ghana and Togo, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, as well as the President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

What You Need to Know:

The two-day summit (22nd-23rd) is centered around the theme ‘Strengthening Regional Cooperation and Institution Building to Address the Evolving Threat of Terrorism’ and seeks to address ‘current threat analysis, prevention, capacity building, and international cooperation with a view to reshaping the international community’s collective response to terrorism in Africa.’

In his opening remarks, Vladimir Voronkov, UNOCT Under-Secretary-General, stated, “Terrorism is a threat to international peace and security, particularly in Africa where its impact is most felt. Da’esh, Al-Qaida, and their affiliates have made some significant gains in the Sahel and are moving southward to the Gulf of Guinea. In Southern and Central Africa, groups affiliated with Da’esh remain a concern, notably in northern Mozambique despite successful regional counter-terrorism efforts and in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. And in East Africa, Al-Shabaab in Somalia is a threat despite heavy losses, while Sudan is a transit place for fighters traveling to Libya, the Horn of Africa, and the Sahel.”

As such, President Tinubu called for the establishment of a regional counter-terrorism center to serve as a hub for intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and capacity building throughout the African continent. “Africa must take a comprehensive approach to combating terrorism, not only through might but by addressing the root causes of the scourge, which include poverty, inequality, and social injustice… The African region must strengthen existing counter-terrorism structures, such as the Regional Intelligence Fusion Unit in Abuja, the African Center for the Study and Research of Terrorism in Algiers, and the Committee of Intelligence and Security in Addis Ababa,” said President Tinubu. Continuing, Tinubu noted that, “terrorism troubles us greatly at the moment. We do well by remembering that terrorism is not of Africa. We must tell this imported evil that wants to bend and break us that it shall not succeed. Instead of making us bow, we shall banish it, let us resolve here.”

The Details:

Voronkov urged those present at the summit, which includes 4 Presidents, 10 Ministers, and 8 National Security Advisors from 29 African Member States, to support the United Nations Joint Appeal for Counter-Terrorism in Africa. Through the Appeal, member states are urged to provide resources for 10 of the United Nations flagship initiatives in Africa. The flagship initiatives seek to demonstrate how multilateral contributions can positively impact the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in Africa.

However, with terrorism seemingly only gaining traction in the Sahel in recent years, H.E Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission stated, “We cannot understand that UN Missions continue to absorb, every year, billions of Dollars, producing very modest results and that African States are not granted a minimum of resources to counter the tragic spread of Terrorism.” Mahamat announced his welcome of UN Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2719 on African-led peace missions, which was adopted in December 2023, but added, “We cannot understand that elsewhere in the world, coalitions to fight against Terrorism were established and that similar efforts are not made in, at least, one of the five Regions in Africa, where the destructive phenomenon is ravaging human lives, infrastructures, and institutions.” Mahamat further warned, “This Conference may miss its objective if it keeps silent over these questions. An innovative approach is crucial as I said. It should include a new model of financing the fight against Terrorism, greater involvement of African institutions and the Civil Society actors. Those National institutions and the Civil society, youths and women, in particular, should be supported by all means to play their irreplaceable role in fighting against Terrorism and Violent extremism.”

So, What Now?:

Abuja’s Counter-Terrorism Summit signals a growing desire among African leaders, stakeholders, and relevant multinational organizations to address the challenges terrorism creates for African societies and the wider world in regards to the international arms trade and the migration of terrorists across borders.

With the first day of the summit reserved for opening remarks, the sharing of concerns, and the floating of ideas, concrete solutions are most likely to come tomorrow. However, President Tinubu’s recognition of poverty, inequality, and social injustice as the root causes of terrorism alongside H.E Mahamat’s identification of civil society actors, youth, and women as key to the fight against terrorism, signals the possible implementation of an African-led holistic approach to counter-terrorism in the region.

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Russian forces claim to have captured bilohorivka, luhansk, again, icc announces application for arrest warrants against israeli and hamas officials, new regulations indicates china will detain individuals illegally entering maritime territory, eu training mission in mali ends mandate after 11 years, a look at south africa and israel’s oral arguments in the emergency icj hearing, coup attempt in the drc, three us nationals arrested, sitrep: iranian president’s helicopter missing after crash, google’s youtube restricted videos of glory to hong kong after court ruling, us removes cuba from list of countries not fully opposing terrorism, kenya’s haiti deployment faces further legal challenges as police expected on the ground soon, argentine unions lead demonstration against bases law.

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Nigeria: UN genocide expert warns against worsening security situation

Internally displaced mothers with their children attend a WFP famine assessment exercise in Borno State, northeastern Nigeria.

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The UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide on Thursday voiced concern over the worsening security situation in Nigeria, while urging the authorities to ensure counter-terrorism operations are conducted in line with international human rights and humanitarian law.

Alice Nderitu expressed her strongest condemnation for the 24 January airstrike in which at least 40 herders, mainly ethnic Fulani, were killed, and scores of other civilians were injured.

The incident occurred in a village on the border of two states, Nasarawa and Benue. She recalled that another airstrike in 2017, resulted in 54 civilian casualties at a camp for displaced persons in Borno State.

Risk of further tensions

Ms. Nderitu was particularly concerned about the situation in the North West and North Central regions of Nigeria, where the air attacks took place.

“These dynamics of targeting communities along identity lines, if unaddressed, risk further fuelling intercommunal tensions, recruitment by armed groups and retaliatory attacks, with obvious impact on civilians” she added.

The Special Adviser said the worsening security situation in Nigeria is characterized by the politicization of transhumance, the seasonal movement of livestock for grazing, and increasing divisions among communities, including based on stigmatization along religious and ethnic lines.

Warning ahead of elections

“In this extremely volatile environment, it is important that the general elections scheduled to be held on 25 February 2023 do not trigger violence and even atrocity crimes.” she warned.

Ms. Nderitu also underlined concern for increasing trends of hate speech along identity lines, and incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence that permeates political discourse in the country.

She called for all political leaders to abide by a peace accord they signed that includes commitment to peaceful campaigns.

Religious and traditional leaders also were encouraged to work to appease tensions, prevent incitement to violence and address the risk of atrocity crimes ahead of the elections and beyond.

Manipulation of transhumance

Beyond Nigeria, Ms. Nderitu expressed concern over the manipulation of transhumance in political discourse, across the whole of West Africa and the vast Sahel region.

“Continuous high levels of violence targeting communities in relation to transhumance, including with hate speech and incitement to violence, are particularly concerning in view of upcoming elections in many countries in the region,” she said.

The UN official appealed for urgent action to address conflicts, prevent atrocity crimes and allow for peaceful elections to take place.

Secretary-General’s Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide

United Nations

Office on drugs and crime, unodc supports nigeria in countering incitement to terrorism while protecting free speech.

With over 103 TV stations, more than 40 nationally distributed newspapers and 277 radio stations, the volume of information disseminated through Nigeria’s numerous media platforms can be overwhelming. In addition to traditional media, there are an estimated 81 million Internet users in the country, 85% of whom are active on WhatsApp, 78% on Facebook and 53% on YouTube.

While media outlets and online platforms can be effective mediums for disseminating timely and accurate information, they can also be misused to spread destabilizing narratives, promote fake news, and even encourage extremist violence.

Terrorist groups like Jamā'atu Ahli is-Sunnah lid-Da'wati wal-Jihād (People Committed to the Propagation of the Prophet’s Teachings and Jihad, commonly known as JAS) and Islamic State in West African Province (ISWAP) frequently use both online and traditional media platforms to spread their messages, intimidate members of the public, drown out moderate voices, and to attract new recruits, all of which pose a serious challenge to state institutions in charge of protecting citizens and preserving national security.

The United Nations has been increasingly active on the issue of incitement to terrorism, passing several resolutions, most notably Security Council resolution 1624 (2005), which makes specific reference to the prohibition of incitement to commit terrorist acts. In this regard, the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED) recently published a “ Global survey of the implementation of Security Council resolution 1624 (2005) by Member States ”, which provides a detailed regional overview of the steps taken by States to counter incitement to violent extremism, terrorist narratives and to commit terrorist acts.

In order to respond to these challenges, UNODC delivered, with the support of the European Union, a workshop in Abuja on incitement to terrorism through the media on 23-25 November.

During the workshop, international experts, representatives from the Nigerian justice and human rights community, and the Nigerian media discussed the dangers of defining incitement broadly. Further importance was placed on a robust independent media landscape, the relevance of legal concepts, the technical challenges to proving incitement charges in court, and collecting electronic evidence from social media platforms.

UNODC’s facilitators set out to deepen participants’ understanding of the role that criminal justice instruments can play in addressing the abuse of media and social media platforms as a means of inciting terrorism. Moreover, the facilitators strengthened the capacities of participants to apply fundamental human rights safeguards to any measures intended to prevent incitement.

On completing the workshop, a participant representing one of the Nigerian media outlets reflected: “As a journalist and judiciary correspondent, the workshop has broadened my knowledge on the Terrorism Prevention Act and its usage in prosecution. Journalists cannot only help to distribute information but also counter hate-speech and create an environment of balanced opinions. For the media, it could be problematic to find a balance between preventing harm caused by careless speech and protecting individual expression. Therefore, responsible journalism should be factual [and] devoid of sensationalism in its reportage.”

Tom Parker, UNODC’s Project Coordinator for Counterterrorism Programming in Nigeria, added: “The issue of incitement to violence, and especially of incitement to terrorism, is an extremely complex one, in which striking the right balance between protecting the public’s freedoms and protecting the physical well-being of the public is a critical yet challenging task. It is our hope that the participants in this workshop will take back new information and perspectives to their parent organizations that will enhance ongoing efforts to counter the criminal activities of violent extremist and terrorist groups online.”

To help member states navigate these complex issues, UNODC developed a publication on The Use of the Internet for Terrorist Purposes .

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Nigeria: High-Level African Counter-Terrorism Meeting Holds in Abuja, Nigeria

Representatives from regional and sub-regional organisations, civil society and various entities of the United Nations will attend the meeting.

On Monday, 22 April 2024, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, Vladimir Voronkov, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) Leonardo Santos Simão, the High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations, Miguel Moratinos, and other high-level United Nations officials will participate in a High-Level African Counter-Terrorism Meeting in Abuja, Nigeria.

The two-day Meeting (22-23 April) is hosted by the Federal Government of Nigeria under the auspices of the President, H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu , and the National Security Advisor, H.E. Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

It will bring together African Member States, the African Union, and other regional and sub-regional organisations, international partners, including P5 members of the United Nations Security Council, and civil society organisations.

Nigeria's leadership and convening power is being demonstrated through the participation of four Presidents, 10 Ministers, and eight national security advisors from 29 African Member States.

In addition, there will be representatives from seven regional and sub-regional organizations, 17 civil society organisations, and various entities of the United Nations.

Terrorism continues to pose a persistent global threat to international peace and security, impacting several regions worldwide, especially the African continent.

The rise of terrorism in Africa, especially in the Sahel, is very concerning. The meeting will focus on current threat analysis, prevention, capacity building, and international cooperation with a view to reshaping the international community's collective response to terrorism in Africa.

As part of the Abuja process, the High-Level Meeting will support Africa-led and Africa-owned solutions. UNOCT, in coordination with other partners, stands ready to support the development and implementation of dedicated packages of capacity-building programmes to African Member States in the priority areas of assistance identified during the meeting.

SOURCE: United Nations Office for Counter-terrorism

Read the original article on Premium Times .

Nigeria's Terrorism-Related Deaths Drop From 2,600 Monthly to 200 - NSA

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Speech to the UN Security Council on Counter-terrorism in Africa

On 10 November, Crisis Group’s President & CEO Comfort Ero spoke to the UN Security Council about stabilisation and counter-terrorism missions on the African continent.

Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you to Chairperson Faki for his remarks.

Crisis Group is an international conflict prevention organisation that has long had a special focus on Africa. I was director of our Africa Program from 2011 to 2021. The issues before us today are, therefore, of particular interest both to me personally and to Crisis Group.

Crisis Group has published analyses of the African-led stabilisation and counter-terrorism missions under discussion today, including the G5 Sahel regional force and the Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad basin. A year ago, we published a briefing on the African Union stabilisation mission in Somalia, reflecting on the Security Council debates of the time.

We have focused on these missions for three reasons.

First, we believe that conflicts involving non-state armed groups – including jihadist groups – will be a source of instability in Africa for some time to come.

Secondly, we assess that robust, African-led missions are well positioned to counter these threats, but that they can only be effective if they are properly and reliably resourced.

Like it or not, the best way to resource these missions is through some sort of UN mechanism

Thirdly – and perhaps provocatively in the context of this debate – Crisis Group also believes that these stabilisation missions alone cannot stem the threat of non-state armed groups.

There is a role for the use of force against jihadists. The military operations that come as part of robust stabilisation and counter-terrorism missions are a crucial component of any effort against such groups. But those operations must be subordinate to a political strategy. They should be part of a broader set of responses, including projects to provide basic services and better governance to populations in areas where non-state armed groups have gained influence.

And at times, although it is hard, that political strategy must contemplate engaging in dialogue with non-state armed groups – often seen as a taboo – to resolve both humanitarian and political issues.

I will return to this call for dialogue at the end of my remarks. But let me first make the case for supporting regionally led stabilisation operations to counter non-state armed groups.

The case for investing in stability in Africa hardly needs repetition here. The continent is now the centre of civil wars in the world. Jihadist groups are often actors in those wars.

Non-state armed groups and jihadist organisations both fuel and profit from these conflicts, building power bases in places where state control is minimal or non-existent due to violence.

Jihadists have tended to gain strength in places where the state has collapsed, often moving in to exploit opportunities in existing war zones.

In some cases, notably Mali, the Security Council has sent blue helmet peacekeepers as part of the response to such threats. But UN peacekeeping forces are not designed or equipped to fight extended counter-terrorism campaigns, as we have seen in Gao and Kidal.

Such operations are not formally part of blue helmets’ mandates, but often other components of the mandate – such as civilian protection – inevitably entail confrontation with militants.

As Crisis Group has recently argued, this Council should do a serious stock-taking of whether UN forces like MINUSMA are fit for purpose in such cases.

But if blue helmets cannot do the job, who can?

African-led stabilisation operations are at least one potential answer.

As Crisis Group noted one year ago, African Union (AU) forces in Somalia can claim some success in the battle against the Al-Shabaab jihadist group.

Between 2011 and 2012, and at great cost in Ugandan, Burundian, Kenyan and Somali partner forces’ lives, the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) “ ended Al-Shabaab’s formal control of Mogadishu and Kismayo, the country’s second-largest city, prised swathes of territory out of militants’ hands and provided much-needed security for two electoral cycles”.

We can now add that Somalia’s most recent electoral process was also a success. It is hard to imagine that vote happening without the AU mission holding the line against Al-Shabaab.

But missions of this type often face challenges. These include not only tough opponents, but also tense relations with the national governments and local populations they aim to assist.

Yet one of the most serious headaches for missions of this type is “donor fatigue”.

When African officials and military planners look at how to tackle non-state armed groups in cases like the Sahel and Somalia, they don’t just have to think about threats on the ground.

They also have to worry about whether the partners who back their missions will keep providing the necessary financial and other resources they need to deliver on their mandate.

That makes medium- and long-term planning that is crucial for such operations very difficult.

Policymakers in countries – often but not only in North America and Europe, and often members of this Council – that fund these missions face a mirror image of the same problem.

For these donors, it is hard to assess whether the resources they offer will have a real impact.

In the case of Somalia last year, Crisis Group looked at both African and Western perceptions of stabilisation operations in the country. We found that European donors in particular appreciated the risks African troops took, but feared they were funding “an expensive status quo”.

So, it behooves this Council to ask how to offer missions authorised by the African Union more systematic and predictable funding, to allow them to plan, operate and deliver better.

This topic is hardly new. You know that the Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council have been debating how to provide AU missions with reliable funds for years.

Many studies have concluded that the only really credible option is a mechanism to enable the Security Council to direct UN assessed contributions to African-led stabilisation missions.

Crisis Group agrees with this analysis – although in every individual crisis and conflict, both the UN and AU will need to explore if an African-led mission is the right operational choice.

In 2020, Crisis Group published a report reviewing these debates. As we recognised in that report, entitled The Price of Peace , there are numerous obstacles to establishing a solid mechanism for channelling UN funding to African-led operations. Cash is not the only issue.

The UN and AU still have a lot of work to do to define the rules that would govern the political oversight of future UN-funded African-led peace operations, the mechanisms for assessing their operational performance and accounting procedures to oversee their finances.

As Crisis Group argued in 2020, it is time for UN and AU representatives to engage in a serious joint effort to work out answers to questions about how UN-AU funding will work.

That is partly a job for the two organisations’ secretariats. But members of the Security Council and AU Peace and Security Council also need to make a political effort to agree on terms for future funding and operation. I warmly encourage the Security Council to take steps in that direction today.

I want to close by reminding you that we cannot address the challenges of non-state armed groups and jihadist movements in Africa with technical fixes alone. And we cannot and should not ask Africa’s soldiers to try to solve these problems through military means alone.

Military operations against non-state groups can secure territory, protect civilians, deter further violence and create space for non-military conflict resolution.

But it’s rare – in fact, so far unheard of – that military operations alone can defeat movements that are quite deeply entrenched in parts of society, if not necessarily popular.

The question is: what can we do to complement military operations?

Let me leave you with three points:

First, p roviding basic services is a crucial short-term counter-terrorism tool: Groups like Al-Shabaab, or other local al-Qaeda or Islamic State (ISIS) branches, thrive by occupying areas governments cannot control and, in some cases, providing basic services to inhabitants. We need to direct more funds to helping governments deliver such services alongside stabilisation operations. Ousting jihadists from areas they control is not enough. It is crucial to win over populations in those areas, too.
Secondly, g overnance is an essential medium-term counter-terrorism tool: Building on service provision, the only effective way to close the space available to non-state armed groups is to show civilians that the state can provide governance that is responsive to what they want.

And, finally…

Dialogue should be part of the counter-terrorism toolkit: Crisis Group’s research and interactions with non-state armed groups leaves us convinced that dialogue with militant leaders is sometimes worth exploring. Talks about humanitarian access often happen already. In some cases, more political talks – about violence-reduction measures, local governance or simply testing whether such groups are open to wider compromise – might be feasible. At Crisis Group, we have pushed governments in the Sahel to seek dialogue with armed groups that could encourage, for instance, local ceasefire accords that can ease the suffering in rural areas, open up space for the return of state services and allow residents to return to their homes and rebuild livelihoods. There are risks to such an approach. But it should not be ruled out as an option.

Crisis Group, therefore, encourages the Security Council to reinforce the UN’s mechanisms to support African-led missions to fight non-state armed groups.

But it also encourages the UN, AU and other African actors – above all national and local actors – to keep an open mind about talking to precisely those groups, an approach, notably, that authorities in countries such as Niger have publicly adopted in recent months.

That may seem provocative and, perhaps, contradictory.

I agree that it may be provocative. But I do not think it is in fact contradictory.

The conflicts that destabilise several African regions are not only about counter-terrorism. They are often rooted in concrete grievances with state authorities and elites who live in distant capitals and whose level of public legitimacy is dismal. The use of force should always be part of a wider political strategy. That is true from the Sahel to the Horn, and wherever non-state armed groups exist.

I hope this debate will be an opportunity to think about how to get that balance right in each case.

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TERRORISM IN NIGERIA: THE CHURCH'S RESPONSE A Speech given at the 55 th Commencement Exercise of the UMCA

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FG says US relying on fake news to deny Nigerian military of arms

The Nigeria Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has accused the United States government of relying on human rights “fake news” to refuse the Nigerian military of necessary arms to counter terrorism and other major threats.

Tuggar disclosed this at The Wilson Center Africa Program, United States, where he was invited to speak on Wednesday.

The minister uploaded a video clip of his full speech at the program via his X page on Thursday.

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According to the minister, the international community now understands that its interests are best served when it helps support African-led solutions to African problems, as implemented by the Nigerian government.

The minister decried human rights allegation reports that countries like the U.S. are leveraging to deny Nigeria requisite weapons to remove terrorists and other national and internal security threats.

The event is the latest in Tuggar’s working visit to the U.S. aimed at fostering stronger bilateral relations with the host country.

The minister submitted that the fragility of democracy, climate change, migration issues, violent extremism, and other organized crime are issues affecting every country, including Nigeria.

“By contrast, allegations of human rights abuses and killings of Christians, some accurate, some not. Fake news is very much a global phenomenon; has led countries like the US to refuse to provide Nigeria with necessary arms, undermining our ability to counter terrorism and other major threats. This must change.” He stressed that as a regional leader, Nigeria needs the weapons, equipment, technical support and capacity-building to counter terrorism, insecurity and disinformation. He said the US-Nigeria partnerships can help keep Nigeria and the wider region safe and stable. ” The world is in a flux, but the relationship between Nigeria and the United States can transcend the challenges of today,” he added.

Nigeria’s position on human rights allegations

Tuggar further explained that though there have been isolated incidents of human rights abuses, the Nigerian army and security institutions remain committed to human rights while fighting enemies that have used children and suicide bombers to attack markets and other soft targets.

He added that in 2016, the Nigerian army launched a human rights desk to better identify and respond to such cases of human rights abuses.

“We’re not perfect, but we investigate. We’re transparent, and we act. We’re a country under the rule of law and due process. “Our country safeguards the freedom of religion, speech and association,” the minister added. Besides, Tuggar said though Nigeria has been fighting violent extremists for 15 years, the efforts of the Nigerian military and security officers have seen the terrorist group, Boko Haram, as well as its offshoots severely degraded. “Nevertheless, the threat of terrorist organizations and armed groups exploiting instability remains, ” he added.

Regional stability

The minister maintained that the decision by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a threat to ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.

He warned that the development will embolden military factions as well as armed groups in the African region.

More insight

The working visit comes after the sixth U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission which was held in Abuja on April 29-30, 2024.
The U.S. delegation welcomed Tuggar’s 4D policy of Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora and acknowledged Nigerian ideas to incorporate U.S. contributions to meeting these goals.
The U.S. delegation noted the United States International Development Finance Corporation has a portfolio of over $700 million in direct loans, loan guarantees and other financing support in Nigeria.
In a joint statement, both sides agreed to take steps to expand trade and investment ties.

Nnaemeka Onyekachi

My name is Nnaemeka Onyekachi, a writer, public speaker and an award winning journo with over 5,000 reports on a wide range of topics associated with the Nigerian society and the international community. Currently serving as a Senior Editorial Analyst at Nairametrics, my passion lies in delivering insightful financial,corporate, economic news and analysis on foreign relations, governance, judiciary and legislature.

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Curbing The Surging Scourge Of Terrorism In Africa

Foreign affairs analysts have postulated that West Africa, and indeed the entire Africa, is facing an existential threat triggered by a surge in terrorism on the continent.

Terrorism, violent extremism, unconstitutional changes of government, and banditry, have spiked, assuming an alarming rate, and spreading like wildfire, across Africa.

For instance, the African Center for Strategic Studies, in a recent study, said that terrorist activities in Africa have spiraled out of control by more than 100,000 per cent in the past two decades.

The center posited that in spite of the local and foreign interventions initiated over the years, more than 23,000 people were killed in 2023 by terrorists. This represents a 20 per cent increase in the number of those killed in 2022.

This terrorism threat, experts say, is fueled and exacerbated by three main causes, namely: global terrorism financing, illicit arms trade, and poor governance, with its negative offshoots of corruption, deception, and the adoption of unfair policies.

Poor governance also manifests in the pollution of the judiciary, electoral manipulation, inadequate policing, ethnic marginalisation, political exclusion, unemployment, poverty, and, above all, insecurity, rendering the country a fertile ground and conducive atmosphere for terrorists to thrive.

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African leaders and other stakeholders are, therefore, of a consensus that collaboration, institution building, resource mobilisation, intelligence sharing, and social contracts, are crucial in curbing the marauding scourge.

To tackle this menace, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) a few days ago in Abuja held an inaugural joint consultation meeting of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council (MSC) and the AU Peace and Security Council (PSC) at the ambassadorial level.

Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to ECOWAS and Chairman of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council, Amb. Musa Nuhu, in his remarks at the event, called for a unified response that should go beyond national boundaries.

“We need to emphasize the critical role and the absolute necessity of collaboration and cooperation in preventing, managing, and resolving these conflicts in our region,” he stressed.

The Gambia’s Permanent Representative to the AU and Chairperson, AU-PSC, Amb. Jainaba Jagne, said that terrorism, violent extremism, and unconstitutional changes of governments were Africa’s main scourges that must be decimated.

She said that the AU PSC was working very closely with the ECOWAS MSC to address these emerging threats on the continent.

“We need to collaborate, synergise, and work to ensure that we combat all of these scourges on the continent,” she said.

ECOWAS Commissioner, Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Amb. Abdel-Fatau Musah, said that ECOWAS and AU were determined to rout out the scourge of insecurity.

He described terrorism and unconstitutional changes in government as “the two existential threats facing the continent.”

Amb. Musah disclosed that ECOWAS and the African Union were already working on a clear roadmap and joint action plan on the challenges facing West Africa.

He said that the roadmap entailed producing a framework of action, as well as raising resources together to confront the challenges to meet the exigencies of the moment.

“We have chosen terrorism and unconstitutional changes of government as the main issues to discuss because these are the two existential threats that are facing the West African region today,” he said.

Also, AU’s Commissioner, Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Amb. Bankole Adeoye, noted that foreign and local terrorism financing and sponsorship were critical terrorism enablers, adding that, “we must rid the continent of terrorism and silence the guns.”

Adeoye called for effective financial intelligence system that looks at the wider global picture and works with the UN office on counter-terrorism to track terrorists’ funds.

“Once you cut off that lifeline, most of the terrorists will not be able to survive,” Adeoye said.

To underscore the urgency and seriousness, which Africa’s leaders take the continent’s degenerating security situation, a two-day African high-level counter-terrorism summit was also held in Abuja, just a day before the AU-ECOWAS consultation meeting.

The summit aimed at precipitating “African-led and African-owned” solutions against terrorism and strengthening regional response to terrorism threats.

It also aimed at enhancing regional cooperation and producing a comprehensive framework, as well as curbing the conditions that are conducive to the spread of terrorism.

Speaking at the event, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, called for the establishment and strengthening of an African standby military force.

He explained that the force would curb the menace of terrorism and violent conflicts, as well as deter unconstitutional changes of government.

“Terrorism snaps at the very fabric of the prosperous and just society, which we seek to build for ourselves and our children.

“This violent threat seeks to frighten the farmer from his field, children from their schools, women from the marketplace, and families from their very homes.

“We must, therefore, fight this threat together, combining determined national effort with well-tailored, regional and international collaboration,” Tinubu said.

Also speaking, Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, called for urgent collaborative actions to combat terrorism, which he said, had continued to threaten Africa’s peace, security, and development.

He noted that the evolving nature of terrorism in Africa demanded a dynamic and coordinated response that would transcend national borders and individual efforts.

“These groups are exploiting grievances, and vulnerabilities and are manipulating ideologies to spread fear, division, and chaos,” he said.

President Faure Gnassingbe of Togo, in his speech, reiterated the need for African states to collaborate, and mobilise their defense and security forces to collectively, and effectively, curb the threats of terrorism, which he described as “critical.”

In her remarks, UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, stressed the need to strengthen regional cooperation and institution-building to address Africa’s unprecedented threat of terrorism and violent extremism.

She said that the epicenter of terrorism had shifted from the Middle-East and North Africa into Sub-Saharan Africa’s Sahel region, with dire consequences.

According to her, Africa alone currently accounts for almost half of all deaths from terrorism globally.

“Our leaders must ensure that the institutions of the African Union and ECOWAS, who are responsible for driving integration, have the capacity and resources to do so if we are to achieve their mandates,” she said.

Vladimir Voronkov, Under-Secretary-General, United Nations Office on Counter Terrorism, UNOCT, stressed that ECOWAS, AU, and other African regional organisations had a crucial role to play in effectively countering terrorism.

According to him, the success of the United Nations in Africa hinges on the UN’s commitment to support “Africa-led solutions to African challenges.”

He lauded the efforts of the AU and ECOWAS in countering terrorism and preventing violent extremism.

“No single actor can resolve today’s threats to peace and security, instead, we need multiple actors working together with solutions grounded with strong national ownership and support of bi-funding partners,” Voronkov said.

AU Commission Chairman, Moussa Mahamat, in his remarks, said the time had come to work out a holistic and all-encompassing continental strategic plan of action to fight terrorism in Africa.

He wondered why elsewhere in the world, coalitions to fight against terrorism were established but similar efforts were not made in even one of Africa’s 5 regions, where terrorists had ravaged human lives, infrastructures, and institutions.

Mahamat then urged the international community to do more in supporting Africa’s fight against terrorism, and asked rhetorically: “Why are our voices not being heard and heeded?”

Amadu Sesay, Africa’s foremost Professor of International Relations, opines that to tackle terrorism in Africa, its leaders must first resolve the Sahel imbroglio.

He said that the way out of the Sahel quagmire was to urgently search for diplomatic solutions that could resolve the dangerous and delicate security situation there, and return Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to the ECOWAS family.

Sesay urged ECOWAS leaders to deploy diplomatic dexterity with the view to returning the Sahel countries to ECOWAS, adding that it was key to any collaborative efforts towards an African standing force that would repel the terrorists from spreading to West Africa’s coastal member states and beyond.

(Culled from NAN|)

“ECO WAS leaders should look for capable, credible, and competent emissaries, especially within the membership of its Committee of the Wise and Elders, to drive the diplomatic engagements that could provide realistic and practical pathways that are acceptable to all parties, including the three countries,” he told NAN.

Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, pioneer ECOWAS Commission President, and AU’s High Representative for ‘Silencing the Guns in Africa,’ corroborated Sesay’s view.

“I’m aware that Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, is already working actively with the ECOWAS President, Dr Omar Touré, to ensure that every diplomatic step is taken to keep ECOWAS united,” Chambas said.

Diplomatic observers are, however of the view that, notwithstanding the multilateral efforts by African and global leaders to stem the tidal wave of terrorism and violent conflicts sweeping across the continent, they must “walk the talk,” if they must achieve any meaningful success.

They advocate strongly that collaboration, cooperation, financial intelligence-sharing, especially to track terrorism financing and sponsors, institution building, resource mobilisation, good governance, and social contracts, are crucial in curbing the surging scourge of terrorism in Africa. (NANFeatures)

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Crime & Law Enforcement

Terrorism in Nigeria - statistics & facts

Jihadist fundamentalism, conflicts between pastoralists and the nomadic fulani, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Countries most impacted by terrorism worldwide 2022, by number of deaths

Terrorism index in Africa 2022, by country

Terrorism index in Nigeria 2011-2019

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Deaths caused by Boko Haram in Nigeria 2023, by state

Risk index score of money laundering and terrorist financing in Nigeria 2018-2023

Number of civilians killed in Boko Haram's attacks in Nigeria 2020-2023

Further recommended statistics

Premium Statistic Fatalities due to terrorism worldwide, by country 2022
Basic Statistic Terrorism index in Africa 2022, by country
Basic Statistic Number of terror-related attacks in Africa 2007-2019, by country
Basic Statistic Number of fatalities from terrorism in Africa 2007-2019, by country
Premium Statistic Violent attacks by extremist organizations in West Africa 2018-2020, by country
Basic Statistic Deaths caused by Al-Shabaab in Somalia 2017-2022

Fatalities due to terrorism worldwide, by country 2022

Number of fatalities due to terrorist attacks worldwide in 2022, by country

Terrorism index in African countries as of 2022

Number of terror-related attacks in Africa 2007-2019, by country

Number of terrorist attacks in African countries between 2007 and 2019

Number of fatalities from terrorism in Africa 2007-2019, by country

Number of terror-related deaths in African countries between 2007 and 2019

Violent attacks by extremist organizations in West Africa 2018-2020, by country

Terror events involving violent extremist organizations (VEOs) in West African countries between October 2018 and September 2020

Deaths caused by Al-Shabaab in Somalia 2017-2022

Number of deaths caused by Al-Shabaab in Somalia from 2017 to 2022

Domestic terrorism

Basic Statistic Terrorism index in Nigeria 2011-2019
Premium Statistic Risk index score of money laundering and terrorist financing in Nigeria 2018-2023
Basic Statistic Number of deaths and injuries related to terrorism in Nigeria 2019
Basic Statistic Number of people kidnapped in terrorist attacks in Nigeria 2017-2019

Terrorism index in Nigeria from 2011 to 2019

Risk index score of money laundering and terrorist financing in Nigeria from 2018 to 2023

Number of deaths and injuries related to terrorism in Nigeria 2019

Number of deaths and injuries related to terrorism in Nigeria in 2019

Number of people kidnapped in terrorist attacks in Nigeria 2017-2019

Number of people kidnapped in terrorist attacks in Nigeria from 2017 to 2019

Terrorist groups

Basic Statistic Terrorist groups responsible for the most fatalities worldwide 2020
Basic Statistic Deaths caused by political instability in Nigeria 2011-2023, by perpetrator
Premium Statistic Terror-related deaths from attacks by Fulani extremists in Nigeria 2019
Basic Statistic Christians killed by terrorist groups in Nigeria 2015-2020, by perpetrator

Terrorist groups responsible for the most fatalities worldwide 2020

Number of fatalities due to terrorist attacks worldwide in 2020, by responsible terrorist group

Deaths caused by political instability in Nigeria 2011-2023, by perpetrator

Number of violent deaths caused by political instability and citizen alienation in Nigeria between 2011 and 2023, by perpetrator

Terror-related deaths from attacks by Fulani extremists in Nigeria 2019

Number of terror-related deaths from attacks by Fulani extremists in Nigeria from 2017 to 2019

Christians killed by terrorist groups in Nigeria 2015-2020, by perpetrator

Number of Christians killed by terrorist groups in Nigeria between 2015 and 2020, by perpetrator

Basic Statistic Deaths caused by Boko Haram in Nigeria 2023, by state
Basic Statistic Suicide bombings carried out by Boko Haram in Nigeria 2019
Basic Statistic Number of civilians killed in Boko Haram's attacks in Nigeria 2020-2023
Basic Statistic Deaths from Boko Haram attacks on military targets in Nigeria 2018-2019

States most affected by Boko Haram's deadly attacks in Nigeria from 2011 to 2023

Suicide bombings carried out by Boko Haram in Nigeria 2019

Suicide bombings carried out by Boko Haram in Nigeria in 2019

Number of civilians killed in Boko Haram's attacks in Nigeria 2020-2023

Number of civilians killed in Boko Haram's attacks in Nigeria from February 2020 to May 2023

Deaths from Boko Haram attacks on military targets in Nigeria 2018-2019

Number of terror-related deaths caused by Boko Haram attacks on military targets in Nigeria in 2018 and 2019

Economic cost of terrorism

Basic Statistic Global economic costs of terrorism 2000-2019
Basic Statistic Economic impact of terrorism in Africa 2007-2019, by country
Premium Statistic Economic cost of terrorism in Africa 2019, by country
Premium Statistic Economic cost of terrorism as share of GDP in Nigeria 2017-2019

Global economic costs of terrorism 2000-2019

Global economic costs of terrorism from 2000 to 2019 (in billion 2019 U.S. dollars)

Economic impact of terrorism in Africa 2007-2019, by country

Economic impact of terrorism in African countries between 2007 and 2019 (in million U.S. dollars)

Economic cost of terrorism in Africa 2019, by country

Economic cost of terrorism as percentage of GDP in selected African countries in 2019

Economic cost of terrorism as share of GDP in Nigeria 2017-2019

Economic cost of terrorism as percentage of GDP in Nigeria from 2017 to 2019

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National security

PM speech on security: 13 May 2024

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak makes a speech at Policy Exchange on security.

Please note: Political content has been redacted from this transcript.

[please note political content redacted here.].

I feel a profound sense of urgency. Because more will change in the next five years than in the last thirty.

I’m convinced that the next few years will be some of the most dangerous yet the most transformational our country has ever known.

So the question we face today is this: Who has the clear plan and bold ideas to deliver a secure future for you and your family?

The dangers that threaten our country are real. They are increasing in number. An axis of authoritarian states like Russia, Iran, North Korea, and China is working together to undermine us and our values.

War has returned to Europe, with our NATO allies warning that if Putin succeeds in Ukraine, they might be next.

War rages, too, in the Middle East as Israel defends itself not only against the terrorists of Hamas but a barrage of missiles fired – for the first time – directly from Iran.

Right now in Africa, conflicts are being fought in 18 different countries. And Putin’s recklessness has taken us closer to a dangerous nuclear escalation than at any point since the Cuban missile crisis.

These are not faraway problems. Iranian proxies are firing on British ships in the Red Sea, disrupting goods destined for our high streets.

Here at home, China has conducted cyber targeting of our democratically elected MPs. Russia has poisoned people with chemical weapons.

And when Putin cut off the gas supplies it had a devastating impact on people’s lives and threatened our energy security.

And in this world of greater conflict and danger, 100 million people are now displaced globally.

Countries like Russia are weaponising immigration for their own ends, and criminal gangs keep finding new routes across European borders.

Illegal migration is placing an intolerable strain on our security and our sense of fairness, and unless we act now and act boldly this problem is only going to grow.

Extremists are also exploiting these global conflicts to divide us.

People are abusing our liberal democratic values – the freedom of speech and right of protest - to intimidate, threaten and assault others, to sing antisemitic chants on our streets and our university campuses, and to weaponise the evils of anti-Semitism or anti-Muslim hatred in a divisive, ideological attempt to set Briton against Briton.

And from gender activists hijacking children’s sex education to cancel culture, vocal and aggressive fringe groups are trying to impose their views on the rest of us.

They’re trying to make it morally unacceptable to believe something different and undermine people’s confidence and pride in our own history and identity.

But for all the dangers ahead, few are felt more acutely than people’s sense of financial insecurity. We’ve been pounded by a series of once-in-a-generation shocks.

The worst international financial crisis since the great depression in the 1930s. The first global pandemic since the Spanish flu in 1918.

The biggest energy shock since the 1970s. Global forces, yet they are hitting our living standards here at home.

We must be prepared strategically, economically, with robust plans and greater national resilience, to meet this time of instability with strength.

And people’s sense of insecurity is only heightened by the fears about new technologies like AI.

When the IMF says 40% of jobs could be affected, or hundreds of leading experts say the risks could be on a par with pandemics or nuclear war, and when children are exposed to bullying, sexualised content or even self-harm online, people want to know they’ve got someone in charge who understands these dangers, because only if you understand what is happening can you be trusted to keep us safe.

But the paradox of our age is that for all the profound dangers we face, right now, we also hold in our hands an opportunity for human progress that could surpass the industrial revolution in speed and breadth.

Technologies like AI will do for the 21st century what the steam engine and electricity did for the 19th.

They’ll accelerate human progress by complementing what we do, by speeding up the discovery of new ideas, and by assisting almost every aspect of human life.

Think of the investment they will bring, the jobs they’ll create, and the increase in all our living standards they’ll deliver.

Credible estimates suggest AI alone could double our productivity in the next decade.

And in doing so, help us create a world of less suffering, more freedom, choice, and opportunity.

Just imagine. Every child in school with their own personalised tutor, and every teacher free to spend more time personally developing each student.

New frontiers in medical diagnostics where a single picture of your eyes can not only detect blindness but predict other diseases like heart attacks or Parkinson’s.

And counterintuitive as it may seem, throughout human history, the greatest breakthroughs of science and learning have so often come at the moments of greatest danger.

The first electronic digital computers were developed by British codebreakers in the Second World War. Solar technology went from powering pocket calculators to a viable commercial technology following the energy crisis of the 1970s.

The fastest development, and deployment, of a vaccine in history came during the Covid pandemic.

And so it is incumbent upon us to make this a period not just of great danger, but great progress, too.

That’s why we launched a bold plan to make science and technology our new national purpose.

We’re rightly proud of Britain’s spirit of discovery and entrepreneurship made us the leading country in the industrial revolution.

But we can be just as proud, just as confident, just as optimistic about our future, and our prospects to lead again in this new industrial age.

And doing so will enrich our lives and create good, well-paid jobs in the growth industries of the future here at home.

At the same time, new and fast-growing economic superpowers like India, Indonesia, and Nigeria are significantly reshaping the global economy.

And just as this ever more interconnected world creates new dangers, it also creates new possibilities.

The United Kingdom is uniquely placed to benefit. We’ve always been an open, trading, maritime nation; and Brexit has given us the opportunity to trade even more.

And we invent, discover, and produce new products and services that the world wants to buy.

From aircraft wings in Filton, to financial services in Glasgow, to incredible cultural exports like film, music, and TV, or sports like the Premier League.

Everywhere from rural Kenya to the cityscapes of South Korea, people stay up all times of day and night to watch their favourite British team.

It’s no wonder that Brexit Britain has leapt above France, Japan, and the Netherlands to become the world’s fourth biggest exporter.

And the more we export, the better our businesses will do, the more jobs we will create, the more wealth we will generate – right across our country.

This is the opportunity before us. A world transformed by technological progress. Huge global markets hungry for new talent, goods, and services. You can see it all around us.

Two brothers from Merseyside sat around their kitchen table and built Castore a £1bn sportswear business taking on global giants like Nike and Adidas, their kit now worn by Red Bull Formula 1 and Bayer Leverkusen.

British companies and workers right across the country are pioneering offshore wind and exporting it around the world. Already, we’ve built the first floating offshore wind farm.

And our innovations have helped reduce the cost of wind energy by around two-thirds, and increased the size of turbines to the equivalent of the Eiffel Tower with blades bigger than Big Ben.

And you can see the opportunity too in healthcare, giving people longer, healthier lives. In Denmark, NovoNordisk created the Ozempic drug which is not only helping to tackle chronic disease globally, but singlehandedly grew Denmark’s entire economy last year.

All this progress should show us that while this is one of the most dangerous periods we’ve ever known, it will also be one of the most transformational.

And if we make the right choices, if we have a bold enough vision, then we should feel confidence, pride, and optimism that Britain’s future is secure.

My point is this: our country stands at a crossroads. Over the next few years, from our democracy to our society to our economy - to the hardest questions of war and peace - almost every aspect of our lives is going to change.

How we act in the face of these changes – not only to keep people safe and secure but to realise the opportunities too, will determine whether or not Britain will succeed in the years to come.

In the last 14 years, we’ve made progress in the most difficult conditions any governments has faced since the Second World War.

A world leading economy, we’ve seen the 3rd highest growth rate in the G7, and created 4 million jobs, 800 a day.

We took difficult decisions to restore our country’s financial security and control national debt, and that allowed us to support the country through Covid, deliver the fastest vaccine roll-out in the world, provide record funding to the NHS, and protect state pensions with the triple lock.

We’ve reformed welfare by capping benefits and introducing Universal Credit to help people into work.

We’ve reduced absolute poverty, pensioner poverty, child poverty. We’ve cut carbon emissions by a third.

Maintained our position as NATO’s second biggest defence power. Halved violent and neighbourhood crime. And improved standards in our schools with English schoolchildren not just the best readers in the UK, but in the western world.

We’ve legislated for equal marriage. And it is now not even surprising for people from ethnically diverse backgrounds to lead Scotland, Wales, and the United Kingdom.

And the economy now decisively has momentum. Inflation down from over 11% to 3%. Wages rising faster than prices.

And in the first quarter of this year, we grew faster than France, Germany, Japan, Italy, and even America.

The plan is working – so we must stick to it, and not go back to square one.

Because at heart, we’re a nation of optimists. We’re not blind to the challenges or threats that we face.

We just have an innate belief that whatever they are, we can overcome them, as we have done so many times in our history. And create a secure future for you and your family.

Let me tell you more about my vision for how I would lead this country through this time of danger and transformation.

We’ve proudly taken the generational decision to increase defence spending to a new baseline of 2.5% of GDP, by 2030. Yet Labour have refused to match our pledge.

The global displacement of a hundred million people is a new and defining challenge of our age. But we can and will protect ourselves against illegal migration.

That’s why we’re pioneering the Rwanda scheme. And so, when people see that if they come here illegally, they will be swiftly detained and removed, they will be deterred from making that perilous journey, stopping the boats and saving thousands of lives.

I know that our international frameworks are outdated. So there may be flashpoints ahead with the ECHR.

And if the Strasbourg Court make me choose between the ECHR and this country’s security, I will choose our country’s security every single time.

And nor will I ever compromise on defending our values, our history, and our way of life, against those who seek to undermine them.

I am unapologetically proud of who we are.

And under my leadership, ours will be a country where people can disagree in good faith, but where they must do so with respect and decency for others.

A country where the benefits of belonging to our Union are self-evident to the overwhelming majority of our people.

A country where we protect and strengthen the greatest institution of all – the family, better protect children from the harms of the online and offline worlds, and do more to protect single sex spaces.

A country where we celebrate the small acts of kindness that bind our society together, and where we actively work to rebuild the civic involvement and pride that have always formed part of our distinctive national culture.

A country where we honour those prepared to pay the highest price for our freedoms, as we make this the best place in the world to be a veteran here at home.

And a country where we properly respect the older generation.

They’ve contributed all their lives, so whatever the triple lock costs, it is morally right to give older people dignity and comfort in retirement.

But as well as strengthening our national security and restoring pride in our national culture, we’ll also protect you from the dangers of a more unstable world by giving you greater peace of mind over your financial security.

People have been struggling to make ends meet – I know that. In the last few years, you’ve seen rising energy bills, mortgage rates, the cost of the weekly shop.

And I hope I’ve shown through my time in office that, from furlough to support with your energy bills, the government I lead will always be there for you.

But that’s only possible if we take the tough decisions to strengthen the country’s finances and control debt.

You can trust me to do that.

When I stood for the leadership of my party, and my opponent’s policies imperilled our financial strength, I was sooner prepared to lose than abandon what I believe so deeply is right for our country.

I feel the same conviction about Net Zero.

In a more unstable world, where dictators like Putin have held us to ransom over energy prices, I reject the ideological zeal of those who want us to adopt policies that go further, faster than any other country, no matter the cost or disruption to people’s lives.

But even as we strengthen our security and our sense of pride and confidence in ourselves, I also feel a sense of urgency about readying our country to succeed in a world transformed.

That starts by giving all our young people – wherever they live and whatever their background - the skills and knowledge to succeed.

Building on the success of the last 14 years, we will create a truly world-class education system.

The Advanced British Standard is the most far-reaching reform to education for 16-18 year olds in a generation.

We’re tearing down the artificial barriers between technical and academic education.

Increasing children’s time in the classroom.

Studying a greater breadth of subjects to match our competitors.

And unapologetically saying that every single child must leave school not just literate but numerate as well.

Now, I know this will not win universal acclaim but maths will be fundamental to our children’s life chances in this new technological age.

And it is our duty to give them those skills. And more. We’ll end rip-off degrees and massively expand the number of apprenticeships, because a degree is not the only path to success in the modern economy.

And we’ll make sure that everyone has the funding they need to retrain or learn new skills, at any point in their lives, because in the future education won’t stop when you walk out of the school gates.

But for Britain to finish first in today’s world, we don’t just need the skills to succeed, we need to create a dynamic, innovative economy fuelled by technological progress, so we lead in the industries of the future and help you and your family become wealthier and more economically secure.

The government I lead is creating the conditions for a new British dynamism. By investing in the new infrastructure of the future - not just roads, railways, and buses, but gigabit broadband, research and development, computing power.

By helping to create hundreds of thousands of good, secure, well-paid, highly-skilled jobs, that will level up opportunity right across our country.

And yes, by taking the necessary decisions to build the right homes in the right places to support those jobs.

But true British dynamism won’t come from the State alone. It will come from you. It will come from the ingenuity and creativity of the British people, given the support, the opportunities and the rewards to have, pursue and realise big ambitions.

If you have a brilliant new idea – I want you to build it. If you’re passionate about solving a problem – I want you to pursue it.

If you simply want to set up on your own – I want you to get out there and do it.

Because you won’t find the future written in a slide deck in a Whitehall quango.

You’ll find it out there in our country.

And so the government I lead will create the conditions for people themselves to try, to build, to invent - yes, sometimes to fail, but more often to succeed.

That’s why we’re cutting taxes directly on investment. It’s why we’re cutting taxes to encourage innovation.

And it’s why we’re seizing the freedom and flexibility of Brexit. Because so often, the EU’s default approach was top down, precautionary regulation.

Whereas we in the UK now have the chance to be more agile, so that rather than stifling innovation and growth, we encourage it, in everything from financial services to agriculture, from healthcare to house building.

Above all, we will reward hard work.

Because you don’t get anything in life without hard work.

So we’re making the tax system simpler, fairer, and more rewarding, cutting National Insurance by £900 for the average worker, alongside increasing the state pension by £900 this year.

We’re raising the National Living Wage to end low pay.

And we’re reforming welfare to make sure that work always pays, and our safety net is fair to those who pay for it.

Not least because giving people support to get off welfare and into work gives them purpose, dignity and hope and it is also the only sustainable way to cut legal migration.

A world-class education system.

A dynamic, innovative economy.

Hard work valued and rewarded.

That’s how Britain will succeed in future.

That’s how we’ll grow the economy.

And that’s how we’ll transform public services, too.

Imagine a welfare system where new technologies allow us to crack down on the fraudsters, exploiting the hardworking taxpayers who fund it.

Imagine the huge opportunities to cut crime through technologies like live facial recognition, helping police catch wanted criminals, find missing people, and spend more time on the beat.

And imagine our NHS, still free at the point of use, but transformed for the future.

A service staffed by tens of thousands more doctors and nurses, thanks to our Long Term Workforce Plan.

Backed by record funding made possible by years of fiscal discipline. With far greater choice over where you can receive your care, made as simple as choosing what to watch on iPlayer.

And I believe there will be no more powerful example of what all the forces of British dynamism, innovation, scientific discovery and technological progress can achieve, than this:

To address, finally, the fear of one word that still lurks in the back of everyone’s minds, that touches almost every family in our country, and that envelopes our whole world, if we or a loved one hears it: cancer.

Yet even here, if we are bold enough, there can be cause for new hope. We already know we can prevent most lung cancer cases – the UK’s leading cause of cancer deaths – by stopping smoking.

That’s why I took the important decision to create a smokefree generation.

And with huge breakthroughs in early diagnosis and new treatments, like the MRNA vaccine for skin cancer, I believe we can be just as bold and ambitious in improving rates of cancer survival.

Because if we can bring together my vision of a country transformed, with our world class education system that trains the PhD oncologists and apprentice lab technicians, and our dynamic economy that attracts investors and incubates the billion-pound biotech businesses of the future, our post-Brexit regulatory freedoms to approve trials in a safe but faster way.

And the scale of our NHS to help us research and trial those new drugs in a way no other country can, then just one example of the incredible achievements this country can make would be to make a generational breakthrough against this cruel disease and fundamentally change what it will mean for our children and grandchildren to hear the word cancer.

Today I’ve set out my vision for how Britain can succeed in one of the most dangerous yet transformational eras we’ve ever known.

The values that lie behind that vision are a new patriotism: a confidence in ourselves and in all that we can achieve.

I reject those who insidiously question our history and our identity.

I believe in that innate confidence in ourselves that has always run through our island story.

And just as we’re proud of all that we created, invented, and discovered in our past, so we can be confident and optimistic about what we will achieve in our future.

My pledge to you is that I will create the conditions to make that possible, to help you fulfil your ambitions.

To build the world-class education system that gives our children the skills they need to succeed, no matter where they started off in life.

To create the dynamic, innovative economy that will give you the opportunity of a wealthier, more financially secure life for you and your family.

To restore our sense of civic pride and national cohesion so we can be secure in the knowledge that we are all on the same side.

And above all, you can trust me to keep you and your family safe and secure from the threats we face at home and abroad.

There are storms ahead.

The dangers are all too real.

But Britain can feel proud again.

Britain can feel confident again.

Because with bold action and a clear plan, we can and we will create a secure future.

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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Step Out in Nigeria with a Message for Kids: 'There Is No Need to Suffer in Silence'

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex touched down in Nigeria on Friday, May 10 and headed for a special visit to a school in the country's capital Abuja

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are kicking off their first outing in Nigeria with a special school visit.

On Friday, May 10, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex visited the Lightway Academy with the GEANCO Foundation , which provides critical health care and education services in Nigeri, after touching down in the capital of Abuja earlier in the day.

Meghan, 42, and Harry, 39, arrived at the school, where they were greeted with hugs and a welcome banner fringed with flowers reading, "We Are Honored To Have You!" They were also treated to a performance by local singers and dancers. Applauding a performer who did backflip in front of her, Meghan said, "Bravo!"

AP Photo/Sunday Alamba

The Duchess of Sussex wore a peach-colored maxi dress by Heidi Merrick, Emma Parsons sandals and vintage earrings for the outing, while Harry sported a matching beige shirt and pants. The couple were also presented with wooden beaded necklaces.

During their visit, Meghan and Harry met with officials and children from the school. They also both delivered speeches at the inaugural mental health summit put on by the GEANCO Foundation at the Lightway Academy.

AFOLABI SOTUNDE/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

"There is no shame to be able to acknowledge that today is a bad day, okay?" the Duke of Sussex said in part. "That you woke up this morning feeling sad, that you were at school, feeling stressed, that you've lost a loved one in your family and you don't know who to turn to or who to speak to. All of these things you may even be led to believe are not for conversation."

Harry added that he and Meghan were "here today to tell you that that is not the case."

Delivering her own remarks, Meghan continued, "We are honored to have our first visit to Nigeria be here with all of you. We believe in you, we believe in your teachers and we believe in your ability to continue to tell your stories and to just be honest with each other. There is no need to suffer in silence."

"Make sure you are taking care of yourselves, and that begins with mental health, by really talking about whatever's coming up for you," Meghan added.

After being greeted by the CEO of GEANCO, the couple then met with school founder Oprah Adi, 75, and her daughter Joyce Agbese, who is the director of the 200-student school.

Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the event on Friday, Agbese said, "Mental health is a very important issue and it’s not talked about enough in Nigeria, so when people that are experts in that regard come here and talk about it — sometimes messages coming from strangers sinks in better with children than those they hear about every day.”

“I believe it’s really something they’ve been looking forward for a long time," she added. "And the Duchess has a bit of Nigerian heritage, so it will be good for her to see some of her roots and imbibe some of the vibrancy that Nigerians have. It’s in the air. It’s contagious.”

KOLA SULAIMON/AFP via Getty

Meghan and Harry also visited classes inside the school, where they revealed their children Prince Archie , 5, and 2-year-old Princess Lilibet 's favorite activities.

While visiting a kindergarten class where young children danced and sang songs for them, a 2-year-old girl stepped forward and shook hands with Meghan. The young girl then decided it was too much of a step forward to shake Harry's hand. "We all get shy sometimes," Meghan told her.

When they were introduced to the oldest child in the class who’s five, Meghan said, “Our son Archie’s 5. He turned five last week.“

Within a few minutes, the couple were on their feet taking part in a lively version of “jump up, turn around.”

“That was great,” Meghan said as they ended. “Do you love your teacher?” Harry added, “Is singing and dancing your favorite class?”

“That’s Lili’s favorite class,” Meghan said of her daughter, who turns 3 in June. “Maybe it’s all the jumping around.”

They were then taken to a STEM class where a group of children showed the robot cars they’d created. “Who enjoys electronics,” Harry asked. Meghan revealed her son Archie liked construction too. When the students said they’d be showing them in class one day, Meghan said, “We will have to come back for the exhibition.”

Located in the heart of Nigeria’s capital city, Lightway Academy is a co-educational day school offering nursery, early years, primary, and secondary education.

Last year, the couple’s Archewell Foundation announced the donation of school supplies and menstrual products to young women in Nigeria in partnership with the GEANCO Foundation.

The foundation's David Oyelowo Leadership Scholarship provides full tuition, medical care, and social and emotional support to young female victims of terrorism and gender inequality in Nigeria.

The Archewell Foundation’s support also provides menstrual health education for 2,500 girls throughout where GEANCO serves, supporting the well-being of young women in school.

Meghan and Harry's visit to Nigeria marks their first official international tour since stepping back from their royal roles in 2020.

The couple were invited to Nigeria by its Chief of Defense Staff, the highest-ranking military official.

The visit follows Harry's recent trip to the U.K. to mark the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games.

Following their school visit, the couple will meet with the Chief of Defense Staff. In the afternoon, Harry will meet injured servicemembers at a military hospital.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton , Meghan Markle and more!

On Saturday, they will attend a training session for the organization Nigeria: Unconquered and a reception hosted by the Chief of Defence Staff in honor of military families. Later, Meghan will co-host a Women in Leadership event with Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization.

On Sunday, the Duke and Duchess will attend a basketball clinic with Giants of Africa, a cultural reception, and a polo fundraiser for Nigeria: Unconquered.

Simple Family Preparedness

29 Countries Too Risky for American Travelers in 2024

Posted: May 20, 2024 | Last updated: May 20, 2024

<p>Traveling is an exciting adventure, but it’s important to know the risks. Some places around the world are more dangerous than others, and the US State Department helps by issuing travel advisories. These advisories rank countries from safe to very risky, so travelers can make smart decisions.</p> <p>Listed below are 29 countries where Americans should be very careful or avoid going altogether. These warnings are due to various dangers, like ongoing wars or high crime rates. Knowing which places are risky can help you stay safe and enjoy your travels without running into trouble.</p>

Traveling is an exciting adventure, but it’s important to know the risks. Some places around the world are more dangerous than others, and the US State Department helps by issuing travel advisories. These advisories rank countries from safe to very risky, so travelers can make smart decisions.

Listed below are 29 countries where Americans should be very careful or avoid going altogether. These warnings are due to various dangers, like ongoing wars or high crime rates. Knowing which places are risky can help you stay safe and enjoy your travels without running into trouble.

<ul> <li><strong>Level 3: Reconsider Your Travel:</strong> These destinations could pose threats to your security. Before booking, check the latest updates and consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (<a href="https://step.state.gov/">STEP</a>) for alerts.</li> <li><strong>Level 4: Do Not Travel:</strong> The State Department advises against all travel to these areas. If you’re currently in one of these countries or must go, it’s crucial to have a solid contingency plan, keep informed using the U.S. Embassy updates, and regularly review your travel insurance.</li> </ul><p>Keep informed by frequently reviewing the <a href="https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices">CDC Travel Health Notices</a> and the <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html">Country Information Page</a>. Always follow the <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-checklist.html">Traveler’s Checklist</a> for a safe journey, and understand the country-specific risks before you decide to travel.</p>

Levels of Serious Risk

Level 3: Reconsider Your Travel: These destinations could pose threats to your security. Before booking, check the latest updates and consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) for alerts.
Level 4: Do Not Travel: The State Department advises against all travel to these areas. If you’re currently in one of these countries or must go, it’s crucial to have a solid contingency plan, keep informed using the U.S. Embassy updates, and regularly review your travel insurance.

Keep informed by frequently reviewing the CDC Travel Health Notices and the Country Information Page . Always follow the Traveler’s Checklist for a safe journey, and understand the country-specific risks before you decide to travel.

<p>Venezuela’s situation is dire, with widespread crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, and risks of kidnapping and arbitrary detention of US citizens. The US government took the significant step of ordering its employees and their families to evacuate in January 2019, highlighting the severe safety concerns. For travelers, these conditions pose a considerable risk, and visiting Venezuela under such circumstances is highly advised against.</p>

Venezuela: Level 4: Do Not Travel

Venezuela’s situation is dire, with widespread crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, and risks of kidnapping and arbitrary detention of US citizens. The US government took the significant step of ordering its employees and their families to evacuate in January 2019, highlighting the severe safety concerns. For travelers, these conditions pose a considerable risk, and visiting Venezuela under such circumstances is highly advised against.

<p>Yemen is embroiled in a devastating conflict that has led to terrorism, civil unrest, significant health risks, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The country’s infrastructure is in ruins, severely impacting the delivery of essential services like food, electricity, water, and medical care.</p><p>This has contributed to the world’s largest cholera outbreak. With the US Embassy in Sana’a ceasing operations in February 2015, the capacity to assist US citizens is extremely limited, so clearly, travel to Yemen is extremely unadvisable.</p>

Yemen: Level 4: Do Not Travel

Yemen is embroiled in a devastating conflict that has led to terrorism, civil unrest, significant health risks, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The country’s infrastructure is in ruins, severely impacting the delivery of essential services like food, electricity, water, and medical care.

This has contributed to the world’s largest cholera outbreak. With the US Embassy in Sana’a ceasing operations in February 2015, the capacity to assist US citizens is extremely limited, so clearly, travel to Yemen is extremely unadvisable.

<p>Sudan faces a complex mix of dangers, including terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict, and violent crimes, like armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking.</p><p>The US State Department’s decision to order the departure of non-emergency government employees in April 2019 is a clear reminder of the volatile situation. Travelers considering Sudan should be aware of the high risks involved.</p>

Sudan: Level 4: Do Not Travel

Sudan faces a complex mix of dangers, including terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict, and violent crimes, like armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking.

The US State Department’s decision to order the departure of non-emergency government employees in April 2019 is a clear reminder of the volatile situation. Travelers considering Sudan should be aware of the high risks involved.

<p>Iraq remains a hotbed of terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict, with particular risks posed to Westerners and US citizens. The US State Department’s evacuation of non-emergency personnel in May 2019 highlights the country’s precarious security situation.</p><p>The advisory also cautions US citizens against traveling to Iraq for armed conflict, with severe risks of kidnapping, injury, or death, along with legal repercussions such as arrest, fines, and expulsion.</p>

Iraq: Level 4: Do Not Travel

Iraq remains a hotbed of terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict, with particular risks posed to Westerners and US citizens. The US State Department’s evacuation of non-emergency personnel in May 2019 highlights the country’s precarious security situation.

The advisory also cautions US citizens against traveling to Iraq for armed conflict, with severe risks of kidnapping, injury, or death, along with legal repercussions such as arrest, fines, and expulsion.

<p>In the Central African Republic, the landscape is marred by violent crimes such as armed robbery, aggravated battery, and homicide. Armed groups wielding control over vast territories frequently engage in kidnapping civilians.</p><p>The limited ability of the US government to provide assistance to its citizens in distress here emphasizes the need for extreme caution.</p>

Central African Republic: Level 4: Do Not Travel

In the Central African Republic, the landscape is marred by violent crimes such as armed robbery, aggravated battery, and homicide. Armed groups wielding control over vast territories frequently engage in kidnapping civilians.

The limited ability of the US government to provide assistance to its citizens in distress here emphasizes the need for extreme caution.

<p>Traveling to Iran carries significant risks, including the possibility of kidnapping, arrest, and detention of US citizens, a scenario the US government is ill-equipped to handle with emergency services.</p><p>Iranian authorities have a track record of unjustly detaining US citizens, especially those with dual Iranian-American nationality, on charges ranging from espionage to posing a threat to national security. The denial of consular access to detained US citizens further complicates the situation, making travel to Iran particularly perilous.</p>

Iran: Level 4: Do Not Travel

Traveling to Iran carries significant risks, including the possibility of kidnapping, arrest, and detention of US citizens, a scenario the US government is ill-equipped to handle with emergency services.

Iranian authorities have a track record of unjustly detaining US citizens, especially those with dual Iranian-American nationality, on charges ranging from espionage to posing a threat to national security. The denial of consular access to detained US citizens further complicates the situation, making travel to Iran particularly perilous.

<p>Libya is a country where the risks of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict, and crime are alarmingly high. The presence of terrorist and militia groups poses a direct threat to travelers, with random detentions and lack of access to legal or embassy assistance being common.</p><p>The potential for violence among armed groups can erupt suddenly, impacting US citizens. The volatility extends to Tripoli and other cities, where fighting and terrorist attacks have occurred, and even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn violent.</p>

Libya: Level 4: Do Not Travel

Libya is a country where the risks of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict, and crime are alarmingly high. The presence of terrorist and militia groups poses a direct threat to travelers, with random detentions and lack of access to legal or embassy assistance being common.

The potential for violence among armed groups can erupt suddenly, impacting US citizens. The volatility extends to Tripoli and other cities, where fighting and terrorist attacks have occurred, and even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn violent.

<p>Mali presents a significant risk due to terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime, particularly targeting nightclubs, hotels, and places of worship. The US government’s restricted ability to deliver emergency services to visitors in distress heightens the danger.</p><p>The threat landscape in Mali makes it essential for travelers to exercise the highest level of caution and consider the severe risks involved in visiting.</p>

Mali: Level 4: Do Not Travel

Mali presents a significant risk due to terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime, particularly targeting nightclubs, hotels, and places of worship. The US government’s restricted ability to deliver emergency services to visitors in distress heightens the danger.

The threat landscape in Mali makes it essential for travelers to exercise the highest level of caution and consider the severe risks involved in visiting.

<p>Somalia is fraught with dangers, including crime, kidnapping, piracy, and terrorism, affecting areas where visitors might frequent. Violent crimes, such as murder, along with illegal roadblocks, are widespread throughout the country, presenting a constant threat to safety and security.</p>

Somalia: Level 4: Do Not Travel

Somalia is fraught with dangers, including crime, kidnapping, piracy, and terrorism, affecting areas where visitors might frequent. Violent crimes, such as murder, along with illegal roadblocks, are widespread throughout the country, presenting a constant threat to safety and security.

<p>The situation in South Sudan is dire, with armed conflict, kidnapping, and violent crimes such as carjackings, shootings, ambushes, assaults, robberies, and kidnappings being all too common.</p><p>Conflicts among political and ethnic groups have led to widespread armed conflict, severely restricting the activities and safety of journalists, US government officials, and other foreign entities in the country.</p>

South Sudan: Level 4: Do Not Travel

The situation in South Sudan is dire, with armed conflict, kidnapping, and violent crimes such as carjackings, shootings, ambushes, assaults, robberies, and kidnappings being all too common.

Conflicts among political and ethnic groups have led to widespread armed conflict, severely restricting the activities and safety of journalists, US government officials, and other foreign entities in the country.

<p>Syria remains one of the most dangerous places on earth, with no area safe from the violence that encompasses terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The risks include kidnappings, the use of chemical warfare, shelling, and aerial bombardment.</p><p>With the US Embassy in Damascus having suspended its operations since February 2012, and the heightened targeting of US citizens and Westerners for kidnapping, the risks in Syria are exceptionally high and travel should be avoided at all costs.</p>

Syria: Level 4: Do Not Travel

Syria remains one of the most dangerous places on earth, with no area safe from the violence that encompasses terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The risks include kidnappings, the use of chemical warfare, shelling, and aerial bombardment.

With the US Embassy in Damascus having suspended its operations since February 2012, and the heightened targeting of US citizens and Westerners for kidnapping, the risks in Syria are exceptionally high and travel should be avoided at all costs.

<p>Haiti’s vibrant culture and history are overshadowed by risks of crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping. The US State Department’s directive for all non-emergency personnel and their families to return to the US in February 2019 speaks volumes about the safety concerns.</p><p>While Royal Caribbean operates a private, secured cruise port in Labadee, the general advisement against travel to Haiti remains firm.</p>

Haiti: Level 4: Do Not Travel

Haiti’s vibrant culture and history are overshadowed by risks of crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping. The US State Department’s directive for all non-emergency personnel and their families to return to the US in February 2019 speaks volumes about the safety concerns.

While Royal Caribbean operates a private, secured cruise port in Labadee, the general advisement against travel to Haiti remains firm.

<p>North Korea presents a unique set of risks, including the serious possibility of arrest and long-term detention for US nationals. The complicated political relationship between the US and North Korea, coupled with the lack of diplomatic or consular relations, significantly hampers the US government’s ability to assist its citizens.</p><p>Sweden’s role as the protecting power for the US provides limited emergency services, but access to detained US citizens is often delayed or denied.</p>

North Korea: Level 4: Do Not Travel

North Korea presents a unique set of risks, including the serious possibility of arrest and long-term detention for US nationals. The complicated political relationship between the US and North Korea, coupled with the lack of diplomatic or consular relations, significantly hampers the US government’s ability to assist its citizens.

Sweden’s role as the protecting power for the US provides limited emergency services, but access to detained US citizens is often delayed or denied.

<p>Afghanistan is still one of the most dangerous countries for travelers, with threats of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The advisory details the critical levels of danger, including kidnappings, suicide bombings, and widespread military combat operations.</p><p>The stringent travel guidelines and security measures for US government employees underscore the extreme risks involved in visiting Afghanistan.</p>

Afghanistan: Level 4: Do Not Travel

Afghanistan is still one of the most dangerous countries for travelers, with threats of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The advisory details the critical levels of danger, including kidnappings, suicide bombings, and widespread military combat operations.

The stringent travel guidelines and security measures for US government employees underscore the extreme risks involved in visiting Afghanistan.

<p>Heading to Niger might seem like an adventure, but it’s crucial to consider the risks. Terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crimes such as armed robbery are prevalent, particularly near borders with Mali, Libya, and Burkina Faso.</p><p>If you’re thinking of exploring northern Niger, be aware that the US government’s capacity to help in emergencies is largely confined to the capital, with stringent security measures in place. This limitation underscores the importance of exercising caution and preparing thoroughly before traveling to Niger.</p>

Niger: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Heading to Niger might seem like an adventure, but it’s crucial to consider the risks. Terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crimes such as armed robbery are prevalent, particularly near borders with Mali, Libya, and Burkina Faso.

If you’re thinking of exploring northern Niger, be aware that the US government’s capacity to help in emergencies is largely confined to the capital, with stringent security measures in place. This limitation underscores the importance of exercising caution and preparing thoroughly before traveling to Niger.

<p>Nigeria, with its diverse cultures and landscapes, also harbors risks of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and piracy. These dangers are not confined to rural areas; urban centers are equally affected.</p><p>The limited ability of US authorities to assist American citizens in distress further complicates safety for travelers. If Nigeria is on your travel list, staying informed and vigilant is more critical than ever.</p>

Nigeria: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Nigeria, with its diverse cultures and landscapes, also harbors risks of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and piracy. These dangers are not confined to rural areas; urban centers are equally affected.

The limited ability of US authorities to assist American citizens in distress further complicates safety for travelers. If Nigeria is on your travel list, staying informed and vigilant is more critical than ever.

<p>Pakistan offers breathtaking landscapes and rich historical sites, but it’s also a country where terrorism remains a significant threat. Attacks are frequent across the nation, particularly in Balochistan and KPK, including the former FATA.</p><p>The threat of large-scale terrorist attacks looms large, with numerous incidents resulting in many casualties. With the US government’s limited ability to assist Americans in Pakistan, especially with the US Consulate General in Peshawar unable to provide consular services, travelers must weigh the risks carefully.</p>

Pakistan: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Pakistan offers breathtaking landscapes and rich historical sites, but it’s also a country where terrorism remains a significant threat. Attacks are frequent across the nation, particularly in Balochistan and KPK, including the former FATA.

The threat of large-scale terrorist attacks looms large, with numerous incidents resulting in many casualties. With the US government’s limited ability to assist Americans in Pakistan, especially with the US Consulate General in Peshawar unable to provide consular services, travelers must weigh the risks carefully.

<p>Turkey straddles two continents and offers a unique blend of history and culture. However, travelers should be aware of the risks of terrorism and arbitrary detentions.</p><p>The US government’s limited capacity to intervene if an American citizen is detained adds to the risk, especially near the borders with Syria and Iraq. Avoiding these areas due to the threats of terrorism and kidnapping is advisable for anyone planning a visit to Turkey.</p>

Turkey: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Turkey straddles two continents and offers a unique blend of history and culture. However, travelers should be aware of the risks of terrorism and arbitrary detentions.

The US government’s limited capacity to intervene if an American citizen is detained adds to the risk, especially near the borders with Syria and Iraq. Avoiding these areas due to the threats of terrorism and kidnapping is advisable for anyone planning a visit to Turkey.

<p>Guinea-Bissau might not be on every traveler’s radar, but those considering a visit should be cautious. The country experiences civil unrest and violent crime, with foreigners often targeted by aggressive vendors and criminals, especially at the airport and Bandim Market. The absence of a US embassy complicates the situation, making it challenging to seek assistance in emergencies.</p>

Guinea-Bissau: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Guinea-Bissau might not be on every traveler’s radar, but those considering a visit should be cautious. The country experiences civil unrest and violent crime, with foreigners often targeted by aggressive vendors and criminals, especially at the airport and Bandim Market. The absence of a US embassy complicates the situation, making it challenging to seek assistance in emergencies.

<p>Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes and rich culture are marred by the threat of terrorism, which has targeted busy areas across the country. The US government’s decision to order the departure of non-emergency personnel and their families in April 2019 shows the seriousness of these threats. Travelers should exercise heightened caution and stay informed about the security situation.</p>

Sri Lanka: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes and rich culture are marred by the threat of terrorism, which has targeted busy areas across the country. The US government’s decision to order the departure of non-emergency personnel and their families in April 2019 shows the seriousness of these threats. Travelers should exercise heightened caution and stay informed about the security situation.

<p>Burkina Faso faces challenges with crime, kidnapping, and terrorism. The military’s efforts to combat widespread terrorism, resulting in a state of emergency in several regions, highlight the significant risks in the country. Travelers are advised to avoid certain areas of Ouagadougou, the capital city, and remain vigilant at all times.</p>

Burkina Faso: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Burkina Faso faces challenges with crime, kidnapping, and terrorism. The military’s efforts to combat widespread terrorism, resulting in a state of emergency in several regions, highlight the significant risks in the country. Travelers are advised to avoid certain areas of Ouagadougou, the capital city, and remain vigilant at all times.

<p>Traveling to Burundi? It’s time to think twice. The country is grappling with political unrest that often escalates into violent conflict. Imagine walking down a street where the threat of grenade attacks and armed robberies looms large. That’s the reality in Burundi. The US government’s capacity to assist its citizens in emergencies here is severely limited, which means help might not be readily available if you find yourself in a tight spot.</p>

Burundi: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Traveling to Burundi? It’s time to think twice. The country is grappling with political unrest that often escalates into violent conflict. Imagine walking down a street where the threat of grenade attacks and armed robberies looms large. That’s the reality in Burundi. The US government’s capacity to assist its citizens in emergencies here is severely limited, which means help might not be readily available if you find yourself in a tight spot.

<p>Honduras presents a tapestry of rich culture against the backdrop of natural beauty. However, beneath this lies a harsh reality of violent crime, including homicides and armed robberies. Gang activities, human trafficking, and drug-related crimes add to the dangers, particularly in regions like Gracias a Dios. This area is notorious for its isolation and elevated crime rates, making it a no-go for travelers seeking safe adventures.</p>

Honduras: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Honduras presents a tapestry of rich culture against the backdrop of natural beauty. However, beneath this lies a harsh reality of violent crime, including homicides and armed robberies. Gang activities, human trafficking, and drug-related crimes add to the dangers, particularly in regions like Gracias a Dios. This area is notorious for its isolation and elevated crime rates, making it a no-go for travelers seeking safe adventures.

Mauritania: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Mauritania’s vast deserts might seem like an explorer’s paradise, but they’re shadowed by threats of terrorism and violent crimes such as muggings and armed robbery. Venturing into this country means exposing yourself to significant risks that could turn a journey of discovery into a nightmare.

<p>El Salvador, part of the Northern Triangle along with Guatemala and Honduras, is a country where the beauty of its landscapes contrasts sharply with the violence that pervades its streets. Gang-related activities, including extortion and narcotics trafficking, are rampant. Violent crimes such as murders, assaults, and armed robberies are widespread, posing serious risks to visitors.</p>

El Salvador: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

El Salvador, part of the Northern Triangle along with Guatemala and Honduras, is a country where the beauty of its landscapes contrasts sharply with the violence that pervades its streets. Gang-related activities, including extortion and narcotics trafficking, are rampant. Violent crimes such as murders, assaults, and armed robberies are widespread, posing serious risks to visitors.

<p>Chad offers a blend of cultures and landscapes but is also fraught with dangers, including terrorism and the presence of unmapped minefields along its borders with Libya and Sudan. Violent crimes, including armed robbery and carjacking, are common, making it a challenging destination for those seeking peace of mind while traveling.</p>

Chad: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Chad offers a blend of cultures and landscapes but is also fraught with dangers, including terrorism and the presence of unmapped minefields along its borders with Libya and Sudan. Violent crimes, including armed robbery and carjacking, are common, making it a challenging destination for those seeking peace of mind while traveling.

<p>Nicaragua’s rich history and vibrant culture are overshadowed by civil unrest and a high incidence of crime, including sexual assault and armed robbery. The presence of “parapolice” and arbitrary law enforcement, combined with limited healthcare, make it a risky destination for travelers seeking both adventure and safety.</p>

Nicaragua: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Nicaragua’s rich history and vibrant culture are overshadowed by civil unrest and a high incidence of crime, including sexual assault and armed robbery. The presence of “parapolice” and arbitrary law enforcement, combined with limited healthcare, make it a risky destination for travelers seeking both adventure and safety.

<p>The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a country of natural beauty and rich resources, yet it’s plagued by violence, including armed robbery and assault. The risks are compounded by the threats of Ebola and kidnapping, particularly in the North Kivu and Ituri provinces, as well as ongoing armed conflict in the east.</p>

Democratic Republic of the Congo: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a country of natural beauty and rich resources, yet it’s plagued by violence, including armed robbery and assault. The risks are compounded by the threats of Ebola and kidnapping, particularly in the North Kivu and Ituri provinces, as well as ongoing armed conflict in the east.

<p>Lebanon, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, currently faces significant safety challenges. The risks of terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict, particularly near the borders with Syria and Israel, make it a destination where travelers need to tread cautiously.</p>

Lebanon: Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Lebanon, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, currently faces significant safety challenges. The risks of terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict, particularly near the borders with Syria and Israel, make it a destination where travelers need to tread cautiously.

<p>On April 17, 1973, the Manikganj, Singair, and Nawabganj tornado struck Bangladesh, leaving a death toll of 681. This powerful tornado destroyed nine towns, including the complete annihilation of Balurchar village. Some unofficial death tolls estimate the fatalities at over 1,000.</p>

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<p>For preppers, understanding the power and impact of historic blizzards is key to being prepared for future winter emergencies. Each of these historic snowstorms teaches valuable lessons about resilience, planning, and survival. The more prepared we are, the better our chances of survival in an emergency scenario.</p><ul> <li><strong>Read More: <a href="https://simplefamilypreparedness.com/24-most-devastating-blizzards-in-us-history/">24 Most Devastating Blizzards in US History</a></strong></li> </ul>

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<p>In a world where the stability of our power grid is increasingly under threat, knowing which urban areas to avoid during a blackout is crucial for any serious prepper. And which areas to escape as quickly as possible. When you’re making your survival plans, keep in mind that these are the places you don’t want to be.</p><ul> <li><strong><a href="https://simplefamilypreparedness.com/23-riskiest-cities-to-be-during-a-power-grid-collapse/">Read More: 23 Riskiest Cities To Be During a Power Grid Collapse</a></strong></li> </ul>

23 Riskiest Cities To Be During a Power Grid Collapse

In a world where the stability of our power grid is increasingly under threat, knowing which urban areas to avoid during a blackout is crucial for any serious prepper. And which areas to escape as quickly as possible. When you’re making your survival plans, keep in mind that these are the places you don’t want to be.

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Nigeria calls for collaboration among ecowas states to develop tourism sector .

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Nigeria Government has called for a collaboration among the countries of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to develop the tourism potential of the subregion and place West Africa in prime position to compete with other regions.

The Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, Folorunsho Coker, also called for the streamlining of policies on tourism in countries in the subregion while delivering a speech at the opening ceremony of the meeting of experts and stakeholders of the private tourism industry on the monitoring and evaluation mechanism of ECOTOUR 19-29 and the ECOWAS Tourism Accommodation regulator in Abuja yesterday.

Coker said: “It’s the season to collaborate not to compete,” adding that: “It’s in the spirit of collaboration that we will grow pan-African tourism.

“I want to encourage the localisation of policies,” insisting that policies would only be successful when localised.

Coker said all the regulations in the region should be streamlined into one that will guide activities in the tourism sector across the 15 ECOWAS member states, calling for the training of tourism operators in the region as well as the introduction of technology in tourism.

He said: “We must embrace technology or it will leave us behind.”

The Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture of the ECOWAS Commission, Massandjé Toure-Liste, said the meeting drew aspiration from the ECOTOUR 19-29 action plan adopted by the Authority of Heads of State and Government, which was designed to serve as a roadmap for promoting responsible tourism.

She said: “To this end, our technical meeting today centres around drafting the operational modalities for two critical tools: the ECOTOUR 19-29 monitoring and evaluation mechanism and the ETAR – ECOWAS Tourism Accommodation Regulator.

“The ECOTOUR 19-29 Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanism will involve developing operational guidelines and appointing dedicated members or focal points to oversee its implementation.

“Simultaneously, for the ECOWAS Tourist Accommodation Regulator (ETAR) we will define the composition and operational modalities in alignment with Regulation C.REG.2/07/23.

“Our focus on Private Sector Collaboration includes facilitating dialogue among representatives from the private tourism sector and encouraging strategic alignment and collaboration at the regional level.”

Massandjé, who was represented by the ECOWAS Commission’s Director of Private Sector, Dr. Anthony Elumelu, said: “Additionally, we aim to support private sector players in finalising the process of creating a regional confederation.”

The meeting is expected to end on May 17, 2024.

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

Full Text Of Tinubu's Speech At African Counter-terrorism Meeting
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on African leaders to unite and fight terrorism and other threats. He stated this on Monday at the opening of the African high-level meeting on counter-terrorism held at the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) in Abuja. The high-level meeting, which was titled "Strengthening regional cooperation and Institution […]
Full Text Of Tinubu's Speech At African Counter-terrorism Meeting
Full Text Of Tinubu's Speech At African Counter-terrorism Meeting. by Victor E · April 22, 2024. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on African leaders to unite and fight terrorism and other threats. He stated this on Monday at the opening of the African high-level meeting on counter-terrorism held at the Office of the National Security ...
Remarks of H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat Chairperson of The African Union
The African Union fully supports the 'Whole of Society and Whole of Government' Strategy of Nigeria to counter Terrorism and Violent extremism effectively. The leading role of Nigeria in the Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad Region is a further evidence of its commitment to combating Terrorism.
High-Level African Counter-Terrorism Summit Kicks off in Abuja, Nigeria
April 23, 2024. Image: Office of the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Federal Republic of Nigeria. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has, with support from the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), opened the African Counter-Terrorism Summit, with guests including the Presidents of Ghana and Togo, the Chairperson of ...
Reflecting on a decade of partnership in support of Nigeria's struggle
Nigeria, 22 April 2024: As National Security Advisors, Ministers of Defense and other senior government officials engaged in the global fight against terrorism gather in Abuja on the invitation of the Government of President Bola A. Tinubu, UNODC reflects on its own decade-long partnership with the Government of Nigeria in the struggle against terrorism.
Nigeria's Battle With Boko Haram
The United States designated Boko Haram a foreign terrorist organization in late 2013, but at times Washington has withheld military assistance [PDF] out of concern over Nigeria's ...
UN Crime Commission Highlights Nigeria's Efforts in Bringing Terrorists
UN Crime Commission Highlights Nigeria's Efforts in Bringing Terrorists to Justice. Abuja, 24 May 2021- Participants at the 30 th session of the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) in Vienna attended a virtual side event focused on the successes and challenges in mounting an effective criminal justice response to terrorism in North-East Nigeria and heard firsthand ...
Nigeria: UN genocide expert warns against worsening security situation
The UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide on Thursday voiced concern over the worsening security situation in Nigeria, while urging the authorities to ensure counter-terrorism operations are conducted in line with international human rights and humanitarian law. Alice Nderitu expressed her strongest condemnation for the 24 January ...
PDF Unoct Under-secretary-general Meets Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Terrorism (UNOCT), Mr. Vladimir Voronkov called on H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria today. The meeting took place as part of an official visit by Mr. Voronkov and
UNODC Supports Nigeria in Countering Incitement to Terrorism while
UNODC Supports Nigeria in Countering Incitement to Terrorism while Protecting Free Speech. With over 103 TV stations, more than 40 nationally distributed newspapers and 277 radio stations, the volume of information disseminated through Nigeria's numerous media platforms can be overwhelming. In addition to traditional media, there are an ...
In Initial Dialogue with Nigeria, Experts of Committee against Torture
The Committee against Torture this afternoon concluded its initial dialogue with Nigeria, in the absence of a report, on the efforts made by the State party to implement the provisions of the Convention against Torture. During the dialogue, Committee Experts asked about the ongoing fight against terrorism in Nigeria, and about conditions of detention, including for pre-trial detainees.
The impact of (counter-)terrorism on public (in)security in Nigeria: A
This article examines the impact of (counter-)terrorism on public (in)security in the Global South by engaging with non-elite constructions of (in)security within everyday settings in Nigeria. The importance of terrorism in Nigeria is recognized in global databases; Nigeria is ranked third on the Global Terrorism Index of countries most impacted by terrorism, behind Afghanistan and Iraq ...
High-Level African Counter-Terrorism Meeting in Abuja, Nigeria
The two-day Meeting (22-23 April) is hosted by the Federal Government of Nigeria under the auspices of the President, H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the National Security Advisor, H.E. Mallam Nuhu ...
Nigeria: High-Level African Counter-Terrorism Meeting Holds in Abuja
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Nigeria spent $1.62bn on the military last year, according to the World Bank, down from $2.42bn in 2013, at the height of the crisis and before a recession sparked by the oil price crash ...
Speech to the UN Security Council on Counter-terrorism in Africa
Speech to the UN Security Council on Counter-terrorism in Africa | Crisis Group. Uganda's troops, part of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) patrol at southern town of Merka, 90kms north of Somalia's capital Mogadishu, on July 17, 2016. MOHAMED ABDIWAHAB / AFP.
Speeches and Remarks
national broadcast by his excellency muhammadu buhari, president, federal republic of nigeria on the challenges of the currency swap and state of... Read More January 23, 2023 Speech by President Buhari at a Banquet During His 2-Day Visit to Lagos State
PDF Nigeria statement -- International Terrorism -- Sixth Committee (Legal
I wish to join previous speakers in congratulating you on your election as the Chair of the Sixth Committee for the 76th Session. I assure you of Nigeria's cooperation and support for your ...
(PDF) TERRORISM IN NIGERIA: THE CHURCH'S RESPONSE A Speech given at the
Terrorism poses an unprecedented threat to Nigeria's national security interest, and indeed, the very existence of the Nigerian State. The paper examines the definition and forms of acts of terrorism in Nigeria with a view to understanding the continual existence of the menace despite measures adopted by the government to counter terrorism.
PDF The Effects of Terrorism on Peace and National Development in Nigeria
To examine the extent to which terrorism impact on peace in Nigeria. To examine the extent to which terrorism impact on national development in Nigeria. Research Hypothesis . The following hypotheses were tested in this study: H1: There will be no significant relationship between terrorism and peace in Nigeria.
FG says US relying on fake news to deny Nigerian military of arms
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Curbing The Surging Scourge Of Terrorism In Africa
This represents a 20 per cent increase in the number of those killed in 2022. This terrorism threat, experts say, is fueled and exacerbated by three main causes, namely: global terrorism financing ...
Terrorism in Nigeria
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The people who serve the United Nations do so with a simple purpose: to try to improve the lives of their neighbors and promote the values on which the U.N. was founded: dignity, freedom, security, and peace. The U.N. has been working in partnership with the people of Nigeria for more than five decades. An attack on Nigerian and international ...
PM speech on security: 13 May 2024
Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street and The Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP. Published. 13 May 2024. Delivered on: 13 May 2024 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)
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Nigeria Calls for Collaboration among ECOWAS States to ...
Founded on January 22, 1995, THISDAY is published by THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LTD., 35 Creek Road Apapa, Lagos, Nigeria with offices in 36 states of Nigeria , the Federal Capital Territory and around ...
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On 15 May, a Tunis investigative judge charged the two journalists and ordered their pre-trial detention under Decree law 54 's Article 24 which provides for imprisonment of five years and a fine of 50,000 dinars (16,000 USD), "for whoever publishes content with the aim of violating the rights of others, harming public security or national ...