Chidinma Iroegbu
The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) held a two-day conference in Abuja on Wednesday to tackle ethnic profiling and biased language in West African security operations. The event is co-hosted by Beacon Security and Intelligence Limited (BSIL) and the WhiteInk Institute, in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser, Ministry of Information, and IPCR, with support from SPRiNG and UK International Development.
Maj. Gen. Adamu Garba Laka, NCTC National Coordinator, stressed the power of language in security work. “Words shape perceptions and influence policy. Stereotyping and profiling can weaken intelligence cooperation and community trust,” he said.
Brig. Gen. Saleh Bala, President of WhiteInk Institute, emphasized cross-sector collaboration. “Security challenges cannot be solved by force alone. Responsible language strengthens cohesion and reduces divisions across West Africa,” he said.
Major U.G. Yusuf, representing the Chief of Army Staff, noted the need for contextual understanding in operations. “Accurate definitions prevent misclassification and protect both soldiers and civilians,” he said.
Dr. Nze Dili Ezughah, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Press Council, representing the Minister of Information, urged media accountability. “Definitions are not neutral. Careless or biased language reinforces stereotypes and erodes trust between citizens and institutions,” he said.
Dr. Ukoha Ukiwo, Team Leader of SPRiNG, highlighted the importance of rights-based strategies. “Evidence-driven approaches work best when local communities and international partners collaborate,” he said.
Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, Director-General of IPCR, added that citizen engagement is crucial. “Security depends on public trust, intelligence sharing, and community cooperation,” he said.
Ambassadors Moses Rugema of Rwanda and H.E. José Bamóquina Zau of Angola called for context-driven policies. Rugema noted, “Contextualized language and shared identity promote cohesion and stability,” while Zau warned, “Reducing security challenges to ethnic lines risks alienating communities and undermines trust.”
Amaka Okoye recounted covering Kaduna kidnappings. “Journalists can be culprits but also solution providers. Context and preparation are essential for accurate reporting,” she said. Prof. Umar Pate emphasized that national communication policies must guide information flow to prevent misinformation.
The conference concluded that precise terminology, professional communication, citizen engagement, and inclusive strategies are key to strengthening security governance in West Africa. Other speakers included Rev. Fr. Atta Barkindo, Dr. Sam Amadi, Hon. Aliyu Ibrahim Gebi, and Dr. Paul Nyulaku.