Sokoto security adviser backs structured support system for terrorism victims

Shafaatu Suleiman

The Special Adviser to Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Usman (rtd), has commended the coordinated efforts of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Spanish Embassy in Nigeria for advancing a structured, trauma-informed support framework for victims of terrorism.

Reacting to deliberations at a recent two-day policy workshop in Abuja, the retired senior officer described the initiative as a significant shift in Nigeria’s counterterrorism approach, stressing that security responses must go beyond military operations to include deliberate care, rehabilitation and long-term support for affected persons.

He noted that the emphasis by the National Coordinator of the centre, Adamu Laka, on humane and victim-centred policies reflects growing recognition that sustainable national security depends on justice, recovery and community resilience.

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According to him, terrorism inflicts deep psychological, social and economic disruption, making coordinated institutional support essential to restoring dignity and stability for victims and their families.

He urged federal and state authorities to institutionalise victim-support systems through dedicated funding, legal frameworks and effective inter-agency coordination.

The security adviser recommended the establishment of state-level support centres to provide psychosocial counselling, legal assistance, medical referrals and livelihood restoration programmes for survivors.

He further advocated structured economic empowerment initiatives, including vocational training, microcredit schemes and educational support for children affected by insurgency and banditry, noting that economic stability can reduce vulnerability and strengthen community resilience.

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Usman also called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, civil society organisations, traditional institutions and religious leaders to promote reconciliation and counter violent narratives at the grassroots level.

Reaffirming the commitment of the Sokoto State Government, he said the administration would continue aligning with national policies aimed at preventing violent extremism and ensuring that victims remain central to Nigeria’s security and recovery strategy.

“A secure Nigeria is not defined only by defeating violent groups, but by our collective ability to restore hope, dignity and opportunity to those affected,” he said.