Abuja: The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has launched an agri-business and livelihood empowerment initiative targeting former combatants and conflict-affected communities in Nigeria. The initiative, in collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), was announced at a high-level donors and stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of NCTC, explained that the program aims to strengthen Nigeria’s non-kinetic counter-terrorism approach by fostering peacebuilding through economic inclusion. Laka emphasized the commitment to a comprehensive approach involving all levels of government and society to address the root causes of violent extremism.
The collaboration with IITA was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed on May 20, and six states have shown interest in hosting the project. Laka stated that sustainable peace and security require more than kinetic responses, and strategies that empower individuals and restore livelihoods are crucial to preventing the resurgence of extremist ideologies.
The project will offer access to land, inputs, training, mentorship, and market linkages for former clients of the Federal Government’s disarmament, deradicalization, and Reintegration (DDR) program, as well as widows and members of conflict-affected communities. The initiative builds on the success of Operation Safe Corridor, which has rehabilitated over 2,600 low-risk former combatants in Mallam Sidi Camp, Gombe State.
Laka highlighted the need for sustainable economic reintegration to maintain the gains from DDR programs. He cited World Bank data showing that agriculture sector growth is significantly effective in reducing poverty. He stressed that agribusiness is an ideal platform for skill development, income generation, and community stability in post-conflict settings.
Laka called for increased donor funding and multisectoral collaboration to implement the initiative nationwide. He expressed gratitude to IITA and other stakeholders for their support, hoping the initiative would foster lasting peace and resilience across Nigeria.
Mr. Sadiq Tafida, Chairman of the House Committee on Peace Building and Social Cohesion, reiterated the National Assembly’s support for the agribusiness-based livelihood empowerment program. He described the NCTC and IITA partnership as a crucial step toward addressing extremism and insecurity through socioeconomic means.
Dr. Abdoulaye Tahirau, Deputy Director-General of IITA, stated that Seeds For Hope aims for inclusive peace, resilience, and dignity. The initiative will introduce high-quality seeds, provide farmer training, build resilient value chains, and promote inclusive participation of youth, women, and vulnerable groups. Tahirau emphasized agriculture as a force for reconciliation, recovery, and inclusive growth.