The Federal Government has ruled out negotiating with terrorists as Nigeria continues its fight against insecurity.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu made the position known in Luanda, Angola.
She spoke with journalists during the 21st Extraordinary Session of the African Union Assembly.
Ojukwu said Nigeria believes decisive military action remains the best way to defeat terrorism.
The minister explained that the summit focused on terrorism, violent extremism, conflict prevention and peace across Africa.
“You cannot negotiate with terrorists. They do not understand negotiation or mediation; you cannot appeal to their reason, compassion or conscience,” she said.
Ojukwu said Nigeria’s position was clear and would guide its approach to the terrorism challenge.
She added that terrorists would only respond when security forces take firm action against them.
“The only language terrorists understand is the language of defeat, and this is what Nigeria intends to make clear.”
The minister said Nigeria’s fight against terrorism would continue with determination and without leniency.
She noted that Nigeria attended the AU meeting to share its position on terrorism and regional security.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Tinubu at the high-level meeting.
Ojukwu said Nigeria’s message was aimed at strengthening cooperation among African countries.
The fight against terrorism remains a major concern across the continent, with African nations seeking stronger ways to prevent attacks.
Nigeria’s position also comes as the AU continues discussions on conflict prevention and responses to violent extremism.
The government maintains that defeating terrorist groups requires firm security action rather than negotiations.
