Military action alone not enough to tackle terrorism in Nigeria, says UK official

Cynthia Rowe, development director for the British High Commission in Nigeria, says military action alone cannot address terrorism and violent extremism.

Rowe spoke at a high-level forum on counterterrorism efforts in Nigeria during the launch of the community-based reconciliation and reintegration (CBRR) policy and transitional justice framework.

The launch was done at the 5th Lake Chad Governors’ Forum held in Maiduguri, Borno’s capital, on Thursday.

Representing the International Support Group, Rowe said there is a need for a comprehensive, multi-dimensional approach to security challenges that goes beyond military action.

“The one thing that we all know is that kinetic action alone is not enough to resolve the challenges around extremism and terrorism that many people are facing,” Rowe said.

“Effective security measures must also address the underlying causes of extremism through dialogue, justice, and development.”

Rowe stressed the importance of integrating both local and national systems, engaging traditional leaders, and ensuring that counterterrorism measures uphold the dignity of affected communities.

“Understanding the root causes of extremism and addressing them through dialogue and community-based solutions is essential,” she added.

“Reconciliation and community resilience are just as crucial as military action.”

The British official added that tackling crime and insecurity requires strategic, accountable, and sustainable solutions.

She also said there is a need for cross-border cooperation among the Lake Chad Basin countries, noting the shared challenges of insecurity, displacement, and extremism.

Rowe commended Nigerian authorities for the ongoing efforts in engaging with regional stakeholders to find sustainable solutions and urged continued international support.

At the forum on Monday, President Bola Tinubu asked regional leaders and international partners to intensify efforts in addressing security, social, and economic challenges in the Lake Chad Basin.