The NSA further acknowledged ongoing collaboration between both countries in reinforcing the capabilities of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, as well as advancing long-term, sustainable counterterrorism strategies
KANo —
Nigeria and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation to combat terrorism financing, cybercrime, disinformation and other emerging security threats, as both countries seek to adapt to an increasingly complex global security environment.
During the event, top defence intelligence and diplomatic officials from both nations converged to review progress and chart new strategies for tackling shared threats.
Speaking at the opening session, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, said the partnership between both countries had evolved into a comprehensive strategic framework encompassing counterterrorism, cybersecurity, intelligence sharing, crisis response, maritime security and regional stability.
Ribadu noted that the dialogue was taking place at a time when global security threats were becoming more dynamic, with traditional risks such as terrorism increasingly intersecting with technology-driven challenges.
According to him, threats including violent extremism, cybercrime, organised criminal networks, illicit financial flows and foreign information manipulation now require deeper and more coordinated international collaboration.
“No nation can address these threats alone,” Ribadu said.
“Effective responses demand coordinated action across defence, intelligence, law enforcement, diplomacy, cyber capabilities and financial systems.”he added
He stressed that Nigeria remained committed to tackling insecurity through a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, adding that the country had recorded measurable progress in degrading terrorist and criminal networks operating within its borders.
He commended the United Kingdom for its continued support in enhancing Nigeria’s security architecture, particularly in strengthening crisis response mechanisms, disrupting terrorism financing networks and improving investigative capacity.
Ribadu also highlighted the growing importance of cybersecurity and information resilience, warning that digital platforms were increasingly being exploited by criminal groups and hostile actors.
“The future security landscape will not be shaped solely by conventional threats,” he said.
“Technology, information and data will play a defining role. Building resilience requires stronger partnerships, deeper intelligence sharing and sustained investment in innovation.”
Powell said modern threats had become highly interconnected, blurring the lines between terrorism, cybercrime, disinformation and illicit financial activities.
“We face an era of hybrid threats,” he said. “Terrorism, cyber threats, disinformation, organised crime and attacks on critical infrastructure are increasingly linked. These challenges require us to adapt and work more closely together than ever before.”he stated
He explained that the UK-Nigeria partnership was grounded in practical cooperation, including frontline operational support, institutional strengthening, crisis preparedness and proactive mitigation of emerging threats.
According to Powell, British military personnel are currently supporting Nigerian forces in Maiduguri, while counterterrorism experts are working closely with Nigerian law enforcement agencies and the National Counter Terrorism Centre.
He added that a key focus of the partnership is preparing for future threats through enhanced cyber capabilities, safeguarding democratic institutions and strengthening resilience against disinformation.
“Disinformation has become one of the greatest challenges facing democracies today,” Powell warned.
“It can undermine trust in institutions, deepen societal divisions and weaken national cohesion. We must take this threat seriously.”he added
He also stressed the importance of tackling illicit financial networks that sustain terrorism and organised crime, noting that this requires close cooperation among governments, regulatory bodies and international partners.
Powell reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in building resilient institutions and sustainable sovereign capacities capable of addressing both present and future security challenges.
The dialogue is expected to assess achievements under the existing security framework and identify new areas of cooperation, particularly in addressing evolving threats in cyberspace and financial systems.
The high-level meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, service chiefs, senior intelligence officials, as well as diplomatic representatives from both countries.
Meanwhile, concerns over Nigeria’s internal security challenges dominated discussions in the National Assembly, as the House of Representatives summoned top security officials over the rising wave of insecurity across the country.
The Green Chamber called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately implement an aggressive and comprehensive security strategy aimed at dismantling bandit networks, securing vulnerable communities and ensuring the safe release of citizens held captive by criminal groups.
Lawmakers summoned the Minister of Defence, the National Security Adviser, service chiefs and the Inspector-General of Police to brief the House on the current security situation and ongoing efforts to address it.
The resolutions followed the adoption of motions of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Ibe Osonwa, representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia State, and Hon. Sulaiman Gumi, representing Gummi/Bukkuyum Federal Constituency of Zamfara State.
Presenting his motion, Osonwa lamented the persistent escalation of banditry, kidnappings and terrorist attacks across the federation, describing the situation as one that has plunged the nation into widespread fear and mourning.
He expressed particular concern over the increasing targeting of schools and places of worship, noting that institutions once regarded as safe havens have become prime targets for criminal elements.
The outcome of the Abuja dialogue is expected to shape the next phase of UK-Nigeria security cooperation, particularly in tackling the evolving nexus between terrorism financing, cybercrime and disinformation in an increasingly digital world.
