Global Terrorism Fight Requires Trust-Based Cooperation, not Solo Efforts, says Defence Minister Musa

The Federal Government of Nigeria has called for stronger trust-based international cooperation to tackle evolving global terrorism threats, with the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, warning that no nation can confront terrorism alone.

In a statement by the Chief Information Officer for the Director of Information and Public Relations, Queeneth Iheoma-Hart, the Minister made the call during a panel session on “Countering Terrorism: International Cooperation Reclaimed” at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2026 in the Republic of Türkiye. Representing the Federal Republic of Nigeria, General Musa joined global leaders, policymakers, and security experts to address the changing nature of terrorism and recommit to cooperative responses grounded in trust and shared responsibility. The Honourable Minister noted that terrorism has become increasingly complex, adaptive, and transnational, driven by decentralised networks, emerging technologies, and illicit financing. He warned that the convergence of terrorism, organised crime, and banditry, particularly across fragile regions such as the Sahel, demands urgent and coordinated global action. “No country, regardless of strength or capacity, can confront terrorism alone. Collective security must guide our response,” General Musa said. He stressed that while capacity-building is essential, the greatest barrier to effective international cooperation remains the lack of confidence in how intelligence is shared and used.

Queeneth Iheoma-Hart further quoted the Minister as highlighting measurable progress recorded by Nigeria, including significant gains through sustained military operations, an improved intelligence architecture, and reinforced regional cooperation. The Minister also noted Nigeria’s continued leadership role in platforms such as the Multinational Joint Task Force, the Regional Intelligence Fusion Unit, and the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services. He outlined Nigeria’s comprehensive strategy, which combines decisive operational measures with governance, development, and community engagement to address root causes and build sustainable peace.

General Musa emphasised that effective counterterrorism depends on transparent, reciprocal, and accountable intelligence-sharing frameworks that build confidence among partners. As terrorists increasingly exploit digital platforms, encryption, and hybrid criminal networks, he urged global responses to advance faster through technology adoption, enhanced intelligence integration, and deeper collaboration.

In closing, the Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to strengthening international cooperation in the fight against terrorism. “Through unity of purpose, shared responsibility, and sustained collaboration, the international community can overcome the challenges posed by terrorism and build a more secure and stable world,” he said. Queeneth Iheoma-Hart noted that General Musa expressed appreciation for the continued support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for Nigeria’s national security efforts.