By: Bayero Ade
Cynthia Rowe, the Development Director at the British High Commission in Nigeria, has stressed that military force alone is inadequate to combat terrorism and violent extremism in the country.
According to Afripost, during her remarks at a high-level counterterrorism forum in Maiduguri, which coincided with the launch of the Community-Based Reconciliation and Reintegration (CBRR) policy and transitional justice framework, Rowe emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach to addressing security challenges.
The forum, held as part of the 5th Lake Chad Governors’ Forum, saw Rowe, representing the International Support Group, assert that security strategies should not be limited to military operations. Instead, efforts must also focus on addressing the root causes of extremism through dialogue, justice, and socio-economic development.
“We all understand that military action alone cannot solve the deep-rooted issues of extremism and terrorism,” Rowe stated. “Sustainable security requires an inclusive approach that promotes reconciliation, strengthens community resilience, and upholds human dignity.”
She further highlighted the need for greater collaboration between local and national entities, urging engagement with traditional leaders and ensuring that counterterrorism strategies are both strategic and accountable.
Rowe also called for enhanced cross-border cooperation among nations in the Lake Chad Basin to address common challenges such as insecurity, displacement, and extremism. She praised Nigeria’s efforts in working with regional partners and called for continued international support.
At the same event, President Bola Tinubu urged regional leaders and global partners to intensify efforts in tackling the security, social, and economic issues affecting the Lake Chad Basin.
Leave a Reply