The Federal Government has clarified reports circulating on some online platforms regarding ongoing counter-terrorism operations in parts of Kwara State, urging the public to disregard inaccurate claims.
The clarification is contained in a statement signed by the Head, Strategic Communications, National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Mr Abu I. Micheal.
According to the statement, the NCTC, under the ONSA, is legally mandated to coordinate and support all law-enforcement, security and intelligence agencies in countering terrorism in Nigeria.
“Pursuant to Part III, Sections 4, 5, and 6 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, the National Counter Terrorism Centre is mandated to coordinate and support all law-enforcement, security, and intelligence agencies in countering terrorism in Nigeria,” the statement said.
It explained that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations, in line with the National Counter Terrorism Strategy (NACTEST), adopt a hybrid operational model where necessary.
“This involves the coordinated deployment of regular security forces alongside carefully vetted and trained auxiliary personnel, deployed strictly under the authority and supervision of recognised security and intelligence agencies,” it added.
The NCTC noted that the model was designed to deny criminal and terrorist groups access to difficult terrains, including forested areas, and to disrupt their operational capabilities.
It emphasised that the operational model was not new, adding that it had been applied in parts of the North-East, North-West and North-Central zones with “measurable improvements in security outcomes.”
On the operations in Kwara State, the statement said they were being conducted within the same lawful and nationally approved framework.
“Limited public disclosure around these operations is deliberate and necessary, given the sensitive nature of counter-terrorism activities and the imperative to protect personnel, communities, and operational effectiveness,” it said.
The Federal Government also dismissed claims of collaboration with socio-cultural organisations in the conduct of kinetic operations.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Federal Government is not conducting kinetic operations in collaboration with any socio-cultural organisation. Claims suggesting that the Office of the National Security Adviser has armed, sponsored, or formally partnered with such groups are inaccurate and should be disregarded,” the statement said.
It stressed that all auxiliary personnel involved in counter-terrorism operations were recruited, trained and deployed by authorised security and intelligence agencies in line with due process.
“Command, control, and accountability remain firmly with the Nigerian state, and all activities are carried out in compliance with the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, NACTEST, and other applicable laws and procedures,” it added.
The Federal Government urged the public to rely on verified information and encouraged media organisations to report responsibly, avoid the disclosure of sensitive security details and seek clarification through official channels when in doubt.
The statement reaffirmed that the NCTC remained focused on its core mandate of safeguarding lives and strengthening national security through lawful, professional and coordinated action.
