Chidinma Iroegbu
The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC-ONSA) has launched the 2026 phase of the Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism Knowledge, Innovation and Resource Hub (PCVE-KIRH), emphasising that Nigeria must move from a purely security-focused approach to a knowledge-driven, whole-of-society strategy.
Representing the Director of PCVE at NCTC-ONSA, Iye Mangset said the 2026 agenda would prioritise learning from past interventions, enhancing stakeholder engagement, and expanding youth-oriented initiatives. “Visibility is not about publicity; it is about accountability, learning and replication of success,” she noted.
Chairman of the Partnership Against Violent Extremism Network (PAVE), Jaye Gaskia, explained that the Hub was created to close coordination and knowledge gaps in PCVE implementation. “Violent extremism is not essentially a security issue; it is fundamentally a governance and development issue,” he said.
Gaskia added that the Hub serves as a national repository and innovation incubator for evidence-based interventions, designed to support policy formulation and practical solutions nationwide.
The workshop also launched the PCVE-KIRH digital platform, which includes a Community of Practice for practitioners, an e-learning portal, and an e-library compiling research materials on violent extremism in Nigeria and the Sahel region.
According to Gaskia, the revised National Policy Framework and Action Plan on PCVE rests on four pillars: institutionalisation of PCVE, justice and rule of law, community resilience, and integrated strategic communication. He noted that dedicated desks have been established across ministries, departments, and agencies for improved ownership and reporting.
Deputy Director at the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Yenami Margret, said the Agency’s nationwide network from grassroots to national levels enables early warning reporting and awareness campaigns. “Terrorism-related information is escalated regularly through state and national platforms for coordinated response,” she added.
Director of the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ilorin, Prof. Amimasawun, described PCVE as the “software of counterterrorism,” noting that effective prevention requires addressing push and pull factors including trauma, indoctrination, and governance deficits.
Prof. Uthman Abdulqadir of the Centre for Peace Studies, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, said ongoing research in Zamfara and Kano is examining youth recruitment, ranching conflicts, and community-based early warning systems to guide policy interventions.
Supported by the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) and other development partners, the Knowledge Hub aims to strengthen coordination, promote data-driven programming, and support reconciliation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of communities affected by violent extremism.