NCTC reveals how terrorists turn young girls into suicide bombers, sex slaves

The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) raised concerns on Wednesday about the troubling use of young girls in suicide attacks and as victims of sexual exploitation by terrorist groups destabilizing parts of the country.

In response, the United Nations has called for a trust fund to support individuals affected by terrorism and violent extremism.

This fund, the UN suggests, would be instrumental in empowering and providing aid to victims.

These remarks came during the launch of a Technical Assistance Project in Abuja, where Major-General Adamu Laka, the NCTC’s national coordinator, highlighted the pressing need for legal measures to uphold the rights of terrorism victims.

Laka described how women, children, and young people have suffered the brunt of terrorism’s impacts—children kidnapped and trained as fighters, young girls exploited in suicide missions and subjected to sexual abuse, and survivors left with severe trauma and social stigma.

“Children born from forced marriages often endure rejection and isolation,” Laka said, referring to tragic instances like the Chibok abductions, which underscore the lasting toll terrorism inflicts on families and communities.

Beyond direct victims, terrorist actions have led to population displacements, educational disruptions, and fractured community bonds.

Laka emphasized the importance of the Model Legislative Provisions Project launched that day, aimed at establishing legal support for terrorism survivors.

“This project reflects our strong partnership with the UNOCT and UNODC and our shared commitment to building Nigeria’s capacity to counter terrorism while ensuring substantial support for victims,” he stated.

Mauro Miedico, Director of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the significance of the Victims Trust Fund, formed under the Terrorist Prevention and Prohibition Act of 2022.

According to Miedico, this fund will be crucial for offering resources to those affected, aiding them in rebuilding their lives.

Miedico also confirmed that the UN would work closely with the Nigerian government to empower terrorism survivors and ensure they receive essential support.