NIGERIAN President Bola Tinubu delivered a stark message on Monday, labelling terrorism as an ‘imported evil’ and a significant challenge facing the African continent. Speaking at the commencement of a two-day high-level African counter-terrorism summit in the capital city of Abuja, Tinubu highlighted the detrimental impact of terrorism on Africa’s development.
‘In our quest for progress, billions meant for vital sectors like healthcare and education are diverted annually to purchase weapons for combating terrorism,’ Tinubu lamented, emphasising the economic toll of the ongoing struggle against extremist groups.
Asserting Africa’s resilience, Tinubu declared, ‘We must tell this imported evil that wants to bend and break us that it shall do neither. Instead of making us bow, we shall banish it.’
Furthermore, Tinubu underscored the broader objectives of terrorist organisations, stating that they aim to undermine democracy, sow despotism, and disrupt peace and stability across the continent. He urged African leaders to adopt a multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes of terrorism, including poverty and lack of education, in addition to military strategies.
Highlighting the connection between illegal mining and terrorism financing, Tinubu called for international collaboration to tackle this issue. ‘Those who believe illegal mining is unrelated to terrorism financing are mistaken. External finance, not African resources, sustains these illicit activities,’ he emphasised.
Vladimir Voronkov, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, echoed Tinubu’s concerns, noting the evolving threat posed by terrorist groups such as Daesh/ISIS and Al-Qaida. Voronkov urged increased cooperation among African leaders to prevent the spread of terrorism, particularly towards the Gulf of Guinea region.
The summit, themed Strengthening Regional Cooperation and Institution Building to Address the Evolving Threat of Terrorism in Africa, has drawn participation from prominent figures including UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, presidents, heads of state, and government officials from various African nations, and top UN representatives.