The African Union (AU) has intensified efforts to mobilise collective action against terrorism across the continent, as Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, warned that internal collaborators remain a major threat to national security.
Speaking at a high-level security engagement, the AU called on member states to strengthen intelligence sharing, improve border security, and deepen military cooperation to combat the growing wave of extremist violence.
The push comes amid rising concerns over insurgent activities in parts of Africa, particularly in the Sahel and West Africa, where terrorist groups continue to exploit weak governance structures and local grievances.
Oluyede stressed that beyond external threats, Nigeria faces a more complex challenge from “enemies within” — individuals and networks that aid criminal and terrorist operations from inside the country.
According to him, such internal actors provide logistics, intelligence, and safe havens to insurgents, undermining ongoing military efforts.
The defence chief emphasised that defeating terrorism requires not only military force but also public cooperation, urging citizens to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible information.
The AU echoed this position, noting that community involvement is critical in identifying and disrupting terror networks before they strike.
Security experts at the event also highlighted the need for sustained funding, modern equipment, and coordinated regional strategies to effectively tackle the evolving nature of terrorism.
With Africa facing increasingly sophisticated threats, both the AU and Nigerian military leadership agree that unity, trust, and proactive intelligence will be key to long-term stability.
