Inter-Agency Security Synergy in Nigeria: An Evaluation of Counter Terrorism Operation in the Northeast

Abstract

Chibuike Isaac Okorondu, Syed Muhhammad Ali, J.C. Ogbu, Adeyemi Abdulrashe Adebayo and Gift Ogbu

This study entitled "Inter-Agency Security Synergy in Nigeria An Evaluation of Counter Terrorism Operation in the Northeast" discusses the evaluation of Inter-Agency synergies on National security and counter-terrorism operation in insurgency ravaged Northeast Nigeria. The collaboration between security agencies will enhance National security in strengthening counter-terrorism operation in the region. The study identified lack of synergy among security agencies operating in Northeast which have impacted negatively on Nigeria National security. This research adopted the field work and survey approach design which integrated both quantitative and qualitative data analysis. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources through structured and unstructured interviews. From findings the Nigerian Army(NA), Nigerian Air force (NAF), Nigerian Police Force (NPF), Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps(NSCDC), Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Nigerian Custom Service (NCS), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and have been involved in one way or the other but seen operating without cohesion.

The data collected were analysed quantitatively and qualitatively using statistical methods (SPSS). The research also revealed that the platform for Inter-Agency synergy existed in the constitution of the federal republic of (as amended) [1]. The synergy or collaboration between security agencies is achieved through institutional mechanism such as National security council, National defense council, office of the National security adviser and other special services office. The institutional mechanism facilitates Inter-Agency synergy which is highly intelligent driven as identified in the counter terrorism operations in Northeast Nigeria. The challenges of Inter-Agency synergy was identified as poor cooperation among security agencies, lack of common intelligence doctrine, inadequate training and support for ongoing counter terrorism operations in the Northeast.

The establishment of counter terrorism center, emerging technology and increase media campaign and security seminar were identified as prospect. This study recommends that there should be enactment of national security policy, formulation of joint intelligence doctrine, joint counter terrorism training and provisions of logistics support and enhancement of public perception as strategies, finally the study the issues, effects, challenges, prospects and strategies on Inter- Agency collaboration and National security leads to enhanced counter terrorism in the Northeast. Hence, recommends that MOD should produce intelligence doctrine for counter terrorism operations by second quarter 2022. Federal Government should enact a national security policy, the DHQ should formulate a joint logistics doctrine by second quarter 2022, and office of the National security adviser should ensure consultation with stake holders on training of Inter-Agency synergy.

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