CSOs Call for Stronger Security Measures and Public Support to Combat Terrorism

Civil society organisations are urging security agencies to step up their efforts to shield Nigerians from ongoing terrorist attacks, and are calling on citizens to contribute credible intelligence that could help avert violence.

The appeal was made on Saturday in Abuja, where the United Against Terror Movement (UATM) praised the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army and other security bodies for what it called a renewed professionalism in counter‑terrorism, yet stressed that additional measures are needed to protect lives and property.

At a press conference titled “Nigerians Unite Under #UnitedAgainstTerror: A Call for Peace, Solidarity, and Decisive Action,” movement convener Okai Austin noted that despite significant successes by security agencies, terrorism continues to pose a major threat that requires ongoing effort.

“We commend the DSS, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilante groups for their sacrifices and renewed professionalism in tackling terrorism. However, the work is far from over, and every effort must be made to ensure Nigerians can live without fear,” he said.

Austin lauded the DSS for adhering to due process, arresting terrorism suspects and letting courts decide their guilt or innocence rather than resorting to extrajudicial actions.

He said the agency’s approach had helped strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions.

“The DSS has shown that terrorism can be fought within the ambit of the law through arrests, investigations and successful prosecutions. This is a model that should continue,” he added.

He also highlighted the recent release and compensation of a farmer who was allegedly wrongfully detained by the DSS in Kaduna, viewing it as evidence of increasing institutional accountability, and urged the military and police to follow the same standards.

Despite these gains, Austin cautioned that terrorist groups still represent a serious threat and urged enhanced intelligence gathering and coordinated operations.

“Terrorism remains a serious threat. Military commanders and political leaders must intensify intelligence gathering and eliminate violent extremism wherever it exists. Every attack on any Nigerian should be seen as an attack on the nation,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to back the #UnitedAgainstTerror campaign by providing credible information to security agencies instead of staying silent.

“Effective collaboration between citizens and security agencies will deny terrorists the secrecy they rely on to plan and execute attacks. Security is everyone’s responsibility,” Austin said.

Another speaker, movement member Okpanachi Jacob, warned against posting sensitive security information on social media, noting that intelligence leaks could compromise operations.

“Security information should be passed directly to the appropriate authorities, not circulated on social media where it could compromise ongoing operations,” he said.

Jacob further urged the Federal Government to tighten oversight of funds disbursed to states and local governments, arguing that careful use of public resources could tackle poverty and other