The federal government is strengthening the link between national security and food security through the AgriShield Initiative, led by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC).

The initiative, under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), is being implemented in partnership with TAG International, with Borno as the pilot state.

The special adviser to the national security adviser on strategic communication and civil society liaison, Chido Onumah, said this in a statement on Monday.

Mr Onumah said the initiative was designed to help farmers safely access their farms, cultivate their crops and bring their harvests to markets without fear.

He said AgriShield would translate security efforts into practical outcomes by focusing on safer livelihoods, agricultural recovery and a more secure national food supply.

He said a baseline survey conducted between June and July across 18 wards in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Jere and Mafa local government areas, showed a significant visibility gap.

According to him, the survey covered 1,409 residents, with only 17 per cent aware of local initiatives to counter violent extremism.

“It also showed that only about two per cent of respondents were aware of the NCTC, despite 86 per cent expressing strong interest in information on the government’s security efforts,” he said.

Mr Onumah said unemployment, cost of living and food insecurity were major concerns for 81 per cent, 70 per cent and 57 per cent of respondents, respectively.

He said the findings underscored the need for government to demonstrate credible alternatives centred on protection, livelihoods, visible delivery and hope.

According to him, the pilot campaign will run from October to December in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Jere and Mafa, using radio programmes, town halls, local drama and testimonies from farmers and security personnel.

“Four radio stations will broadcast 24 talk shows and 80 jingles in Hausa and Kanuri, while six town hall meetings will provide platforms for communities to engage security representatives,” he said.

Mr Onumah said an endline survey would be conducted in December to measure changes in awareness, trust and public understanding.

He said radio remained central to the campaign, with 67 per cent of respondents accessing information through the medium and 41 per cent identifying it as their most trusted source.

He said community and religious leaders would also be engaged, while Facebook, TikTok, SMS and telephone platforms would help reach younger people and farmers with limited internet access.

“The initiative has attracted the participation of several federal institutions, including the Nigeria Police Force, Defence Headquarters, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and Department of State Services.

“Others are the Nigeria Immigration Service, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, National Orientation Agency, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution and NIRSAL Plc,” he added.

(NAN)