Global distrust undermines fight against terrorism, Nigeria warns at Türkiye dialogue
Nigeria has warned that a lack of trust among nations is undermining global efforts to defeat terrorism, calling for urgent reforms in international intelligence-sharing and security cooperation.
Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, gave the warning during a panel session on “Countering Terrorism: International Cooperation Reclaimed” at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2026 in Türkiye.
Representing Nigeria, Musa in a statement by Queeneth Iheoma-Hart, the ministry Director media on Monday, said terrorism had evolved into a more dangerous and borderless threat, driven by decentralised extremist networks, emerging technologies and illicit funding channels.
He added that the growing link between terrorism, organised crime and banditry—especially across fragile regions such as the Sahel—has made coordinated global action more urgent than ever.
“No country, regardless of strength or capacity, can confront terrorism alone. Collective security must guide our response,” he said.
Musa stressed that while nations continue to invest in military strength and counterterrorism capacity, mistrust over how intelligence is shared and used remains one of the biggest barriers to success.
He said Nigeria has made measurable progress through sustained military operations, improved intelligence systems and stronger regional alliances.
According to him, Nigeria remains a key player in regional security platforms including the Multinational Joint Task Force, the Regional Intelligence Fusion Unit and the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services.
