Defence Ministers of Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) have made a bold commitment to boost collaboration against terrorism. Since the start of Boko Haram in 2009 in the North East, Nigeria has formed a coalition from many fronts to combat the deadly group which had over time expanded its atrocities to other parts of Northern states.

The increasing menace of Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), Boko Haram and other emerging security threats, such as banditry and kidnapping, has necessitated growing defence bilateral relationship between Nigeria and other countries to combat the menace.

One of such is the IMCTC formed by Saudi Arabia in December 2015 to bring together countries with common interests to embark on a united fight against terrorism and terrorist organisations.

Accordingly, it was gathered that a meeting of Defence Ministers held February 3, 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to discuss strategy, initiative, and future plans to coordinate as well as support military operations against terrorism and counter terrorism financing and ideology.

It was further learnt that in the landmark meeting, the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, who was in attendance with fellow defence ministers, discussed strategies and shared intelligence in a bid to dismantle terrorist networks and disrupt their operations in Nigeria and the Sahel region.

Sources at the minister’s office disclosed that the assembly focused on strengthening ties and forging a united front to combat the escalating threat of terrorism worldwide effectively.

“Defence Ministers from up to 34 nations convened and discussed a more collaborative approach, recognising that terrorism is not confined by borders and thus requires a multinational response.”

Matawalle remarked:”The threat of terrorism continues to evolve, becoming more complex and widespread. It is imperative that we, as a coalition, stand side by side, combining our resources and expertise to protect our nations and maintain global security. Pertinently, it is worthy to reinforce Nigeria’s commitment and the need for deeper level of partnership in the areas of intelligence sharing, technical support and training for enhance regional and national security. ”

Key outcomes from the meeting include, enhanced intelligence sharing, joint military training exercises, counter-terrorism financing and humanitarian support coordination.

The meeting concluded with a unified declaration that the coalition will take all necessary measures to prevent acts of terrorism and to protect the lives and freedoms of individuals worldwide.

The ministers pledged ongoing support and cooperation, stating that only through solidarity can the global community hope to eliminate the scourge of terrorism.

The participants also discussed the objectives of these initiatives and their role in supporting member countries in their fight against terrorism, violence and extremism.