Cynthia Rowe, Development Director at the British High Commission in Nigeria, has emphasized that military interventions alone are insufficient to combat terrorism and violent extremism in Nigeria.
Speaking at a high-level counterterrorism forum in Maiduguri during the launch of the Community-Based Reconciliation and Reintegration (CBRR) policy and transitional justice framework, Rowe highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to security challenges.
The launch took place at the 5th Lake Chad Governors’ Forum.
Representing the International Support Group, Rowe stressed that security strategies must go beyond military action by addressing the root causes of extremism through dialogue, justice, and development.
“We all recognize that kinetic action alone cannot resolve the complex issues of extremism and terrorism,” she stated.
“Sustainable security requires an inclusive approach that promotes reconciliation, strengthens community resilience, and upholds human dignity.”
She also underscored the importance of integrating local and national structures, engaging traditional leaders, and ensuring counterterrorism efforts are both strategic and accountable.
Furthermore, Rowe called for stronger cross-border collaboration among Lake Chad Basin nations to tackle shared challenges such as insecurity, displacement, and extremism.
She commended Nigeria’s ongoing engagement with regional partners in search of lasting solutions and urged continued international support.
Meanwhile, at the same forum, President Bola Tinubu called on regional leaders and global partners to step up efforts in addressing the security, social, and economic issues affecting the Lake Chad Basin.
