The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, has called for increased international support for victims of terrorism, emphasizing the global community’s responsibility to protect and assist those affected.
The Minister made this appeal during the fifth Ministerial meeting of the Group of Friends of Victims of Terrorism at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
Badaru highlighted Nigeria’s active involvement in the 2023 8th Review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (GCTS), which stressed the importance of upholding dignity and respect for the victims of terrorism while acknowledging their crucial role in combating and preventing terrorism.
He advocated for greater protection and support for survivors and their communities, urging for inclusive, community-led initiatives that promote dialogue, tolerance, and social cohesion.
Badaru also underscored the significance of education in providing employment opportunities and helping young people build critical thinking skills, ultimately making them more resilient against recruitment by extremist groups. “We urge for greater investment in restoring and offering qualitative, holistic, and innovative educational opportunities for victims of terrorism,” he said.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of terrorism victims, Badaru condemned the ongoing targeting of schools by terrorist groups and the abduction of children, which denies them access to education.
He commended the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, led by Vladimir Voronkov for its pivotal role in promoting global solidarity with victims of terrorism. The Minister emphasized that collective international responsibility is key to providing enhanced support for affected communities.
