Abuja:The Federal Government has launched the National Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) Task Team to develop a coordinated and nationally-owned strategy to combat violent extremism, terrorism, and related armed violence. The inauguration took place in Abuja and was conducted by Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), on behalf of National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Maj.-Gen. Laka emphasized that the inauguration is a significant step for the NCTC, entrusting a select group of professionals with the responsibility to advance Nigeria’s DDR agenda. The task team members were chosen for their experience and contributions to peace and security, and they are expected to provide leadership and commitment to achieve national objectives.
He highlighted that the establishment of the team is timely, considering the valuable lessons learned from initiatives like Operation SAFE CORRIDOR, the Borno Model, and the Presidential Amnesty Programme. The national policy framework and strategy for DDR were developed through consultations with various stakeholders, including government, civil society, and international partners such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Kingdom’s Strengthening Peace and Resilience Group (UK SPRiNG).
The task team aims to enhance cooperation among various national institutions and engage with government bodies, diplomatic missions, and development partners to streamline roles and support sustainable livelihoods. The team will work to build institutional consensus and lay the foundation for a Whole-of-Government Working Group to implement a national roadmap.
With support from UK SPRiNG, the center plans to hold a High-Level National Retreat to further define responsibilities and advance plans on capacity, legal, and operational needs. The NCTC is also exploring the creation of a national fund for DDR, Peace and Security to ensure transparent resource mobilization and sustained financing.
Amb. Abimbola Wonosikou, the Director of Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) and lead of the DDR task force, expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in them. She emphasized the importance of their role in advancing comprehensive approaches to violent extremism, promoting sustainable peace, and ensuring effective implementation of DDR initiatives. Wonosikou also requested the flexibility to include additional relevant ministries and agencies to address emerging needs and gaps in representation.