The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced the AgriShield Initiative, a comprehensive program aimed at strengthening the connection between national security and food security. Led by the National Counter Terrorism Centre in the Office of the National Security Adviser, in partnership with TAG International, the initiative focuses on creating a protective environment for farmers to cultivate and harvest their land without fear. This approach recognizes that food security is integral to human security.
The AgriShield Initiative is a creative campaign under the NCTC strategic communication program for counter-terrorism and countering violent extremism. Its central message, "Our Presence is Your Peace," aims to translate security from operational statistics into everyday outcomes. The campaign measures progress by threats removed, harvests secured, and ordinary life restored. By explaining the protection being provided and incorporating community concerns into government planning, AgriShield supports agricultural recovery, safer livelihoods, and a more secure national food supply.
A baseline survey conducted between June and July 2026 covered 1,409 residents in 18 wards across Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Jere and Mafa Local Government Areas. The survey revealed that only 17 percent of respondents were aware of local actions to counter violent extremism, and just about one-third of that group could identify a security-related intervention. However, 86 percent expressed strong interest in information about how the government protects them. The findings highlight a serious visibility gap, indicating that substantial work is being done, but too little of it is understood by the communities it is meant to serve.
The survey also showed that unemployment concerned 81 percent of respondents, the cost of living 70 percent, and food insecurity 57 percent, while terrorism was named by 29 percent. About 83 percent rejected extremist groups and the harm they cause. The government therefore needs to demonstrate a credible alternative built around protection, livelihoods, visible delivery, and hope, particularly for young people vulnerable to recruitment, irregular migration, drugs, and despair.
The AgriShield Initiative will run initially from October to December 2026 in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Jere, and Mafa. It will combine radio programs, community town halls, locally performed drama, recorded testimony from farmers and frontline officers, and carefully selected national media content. Four radio stations will carry 24 talk shows and 80 jingle slots in Hausa and Kanuri. Six town hall meetings will enable farmers, traditional and religious leaders, young people, women, and security representatives to discuss practical concerns directly.
A major strength of the initiative is the breadth of federal institutions that have committed their capabilities. The Nigeria Police Force, Defence Headquarters, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Department of State Services, Nigeria Immigration Service, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, National Orientation Agency, and Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution have all committed their support. These bodies join the NCTC-ONSA in an emerging whole-of-government platform that connects security operations, agricultural resilience, public information, community participation, and conflict prevention.
The pilot also relies on partners with strong local knowledge, including the Network of Civil Society Organisations in Borno State and TAG International. The initiative is also enabled by the Federal Government's partnership with the United Kingdom Government in strengthening strategic communication, community resilience, and counter-terrorism cooperation. Inter-agency cooperation is itself part of the message, establishing a common message platform, nominated communication focal points, and a single NCTC clearing house.
Key points
- The AgriShield Initiative aims to enhance food security and national security through collaborative efforts with various institutions.
- The initiative focuses on creating a protective environment for farmers to cultivate and harvest their land without fear.
- A baseline survey revealed a serious visibility gap, indicating that substantial work is being done, but too little of it is understood by the communities it is meant to serve.
