Strengthening Regional Counter-Terrorism Efforts: AES Delegation Engages with Nigeria’s OPSC and Borno Model
By: Zagazola Makama
A high-level delegation from the African Economic and Security (AES) bloc is currently undertaking a pivotal visit to Nigeria to study the country's Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC) and the Borno Model, aimed at enhancing regional collaboration in the fight against terrorism and insecurity.
This strategic visit emphasizes knowledge sharing and capacity building, allowing AES member states to adopt effective practices in the deradicalization, rehabilitation, and reintegration of former combatants.
Through direct engagements with Nigerian security and government officials, the AES delegation seeks to gain a comprehensive understanding of Nigeria's innovative non-kinetic strategies in counter-terrorism.
The OPSC program, initiated by the Defence Headquarters, offers a structured pathway for the rehabilitation of repentant terrorists, while the Borno Model, led by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, incorporates local governance and community driven interventions to foster sustainable peace.
A significant outcome anticipated from this visit is the acquisition of vital skills and expertise by AES representatives, empowering them to implement similar initiatives within their respective nations.
This endeavor also draws attention to Nigeria's dedication to strengthening regional partnerships in the battle against terrorism. The AES delegation is set to engage in high-level discussions with Nigerian security officials, policy experts, and local stakeholders to explore potential collaborative efforts.
According to officials familiar with the visit, discussions are expected to revolve around joint initiatives, intelligence sharing, and coordinated counter-terrorism strategies across the region.
“This visit provides a unique opportunity for Nigeria and its regional partners to work towards harmonized strategies in tackling violent extremism,” remarked a senior Nigerian security official.
A primary objective of the delegation's visit is to develop more effective counter-terrorism strategies that align with the specific realities faced by AES member countries. Through interactions with Nigerian security experts, the delegation aims to identify best practices in preventing and countering violent extremism (PCVE).
The visit will also facilitate conversations on community engagement, the socio-economic reintegration of ex-combatants, and psychological rehabilitation methodologies.
A central theme for public messaging during the visit is “Safer, Stronger Together: Sharing Expertise to Combat Terrorism Using Non-Kinetic Strategies.” This theme accentuates Nigeria’s commitment to sharing its counter-terrorism and rehabilitation expertise with AES member states, symbolizing regional cooperation in addressing shared security challenges. The OPSC and Borno Model are positioned as effective blueprints for deradicalization and reintegration efforts.
To maximize the impact of the visit, the Nigerian government is anticipated to organize a joint press conference featuring key officials from both sides. Furthermore, Nigerian security agencies and the AES delegation will engage in strategic discussions with think tanks and development partners focused on counter-terrorism policies across Africa.
A Step Forward in Regional Security
Zagazola Makama assert that the AES delegation’s visit to Nigeria marks a crucial advancement in bolstering transnational security cooperation.
“Nigeria has developed a comprehensive approach to combatting insurgency, effectively balancing military action with rehabilitation and community engagement. “AES member states can adapt these lessons to enhance their own security frameworks,”said Zagazola.
As the visit unfolds, it is expected to lay the groundwork for broader regional initiatives, including joint research, security training programs, and coordinated policy responses to terrorism and violent extremism in West Africa and the broader Sahel.
Zagazola Makama is a Counter Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad
