Abuja: The National Counter-Terrorism Centre – Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA) has introduced an inter-agency strategic communication campaign to boost farmers’ confidence and support the safe return to farming in Borno. The National Coordinator of NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, announced this initiative at an Inter-Agency Coordination Meeting on the AgriShield Strategic Communication Campaign held on Thursday in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the campaign, jointly organised by NCTC and TAG International, aims to strengthen public confidence, support safe access to livelihoods, and reinforce food security in the region. Borno has faced years of terrorism and violent extremism, yet its people have shown resilience in overcoming these challenges. Laka, who considers Borno his second home after serving and commanding troops in the state during the Boko Haram insurgency, emphasized the significance of the campaign.
The return of families to their communities and farmers to their fields indicates growing confidence in the region’s security. Laka highlighted the importance of sustained security and effective communication, assuring farmers that the Armed Forces and other security and intelligence agencies are committed to protecting communities and ensuring safe agricultural activities. He stressed that security efforts depend on trust, cooperation, and responsible communication among security agencies, communities, civil society, and other stakeholders.
The collaboration between NCTC and the Network of Civil Society Organisations in Borno is vital to the campaign’s success, ensuring it reaches communities effectively. AgriShield will utilize trusted communication channels, including radio programs in Hausa and Kanuri, town hall meetings, and input from farmers, communities, and frontline security personnel. Laka urged participating agencies to agree on responsibilities, coordination channels, and timelines while nominating senior communication officers as focal points.
Dr. Chido Onumah, Special Adviser to the National Security Adviser on Strategic Communication and Civil Society Engagement, also addressed the meeting, describing livelihoods as a critical national security issue. He highlighted the security implications of livelihoods for food producers, transporters, and consumers. Onumah called on stakeholders to contribute ideas to strengthen the implementation and success of the AgriShield program, emphasizing collective effort for a successful outcome.
The meeting convened representatives from the public relations departments of the military, police, and other security agencies, alongside civil society organizations, to discuss the campaign’s strategies and objectives.