16 hours ago
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The National Coordinator, National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Maj -Gen. Adamu Laka, says victims of terrorism are at the heart of centre’s counter terrorism efforts.
Maj.-Gen. Laka stated this Wednesday at the launch of the Model Legislative Provisions Project to Support the Needs and Protect the Rights of Victims and Survivors of Terrorism in partnership with United Nations Office of Counter Terrorism (UNOCT), and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Abuja.
“At the NCTC, our focus has always been on placing victims at the heart of our counterterrorism efforts,” he said.
While lamenting the negative effects of terrorism on its victims and the society at large, he said the project aligns with the centre’s vision of working with its partners to build Nigeria’s capacity to prevent, detect, investigate, and prosecute terrorist offences, while ensuring robust support for victims.
“I am pleased to note that this project will enhance the operationalization of the Victims Trust Fund, as enshrined in the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022. It underscores our collective commitment to restoring dignity, promoting resilience, and providing justice for victims and survivors of terrorism,” he said .
Speaking further, the national coordinator said the initiative would address misconception and counters narratives that the federal government led Operation SAFE CORRIDOR for repentant terrorists prioritises offenders over victims.
“This project demonstrates our focus on rehabilitating victims and reintegrating them into society as part of our broader strategy to break the cycle of violence,” he said.
In his remarks, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi SAN, said the federal government recognizes the importance of addressing the needs of victims.
Represented by Director Public Prosecutions of the Federation
Mohammed Baba Abubakar, he said the scourge of terrorism has cast a long shadow over Nigeria leaving behind a trail of suffering, loss, and trauma.
“It is therefore imperative that we not only combat terrorism but also provide comprehensive support to its victims,” he said.
He pledged his commitment to ensuring that the rights of victims are upheld and that justice is served.
He said he will work closely with all stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, civil society organizations, and international partners, to implement the Model Legal Provisions effectively.
” By providing legal aid, counseling, and other forms of support, we can empower victims to rebuild their lives and contribute to a more peaceful and just society,” he said.
