Since 2022, Adam Smith International has supported critical efforts to improve civil-military coordination and embed human rights in security operations across Nigeria and the wider Lake Chad Basin.

Delivered through the £10 million UK-funded Lake Chad Basin Support Framework (LSF), the programme worked with senior police and military leadership to strengthen accountability, promote justice, and reduce harm to civilians in a region long affected by insurgency and instability.

Now concluded as of March 2025, the programme leaves behind a foundation of practical reforms, improved coordination, and growing momentum for security and justice sector transformation—reflections on which we share in the article below.

STRENGTHENING GENDER AND FORENSIC CAPABILITIES

Recognising the prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in conflict-affected areas, the LSF was instrumental in: 

Establishing gender desks in 33 police divisions across Borno State, a model now set for nationwideexpansion under the directive of the Inspector General of Police. The LSF developed operational proceduresand provided specialised training for investigators to staff these desks effectively.

Pioneering forensic science and DNA collection in SGBV investigations, improving police accountability andaccess to justice. This initiative led to the exoneration of two wrongly accused suspects, reinforcing humanrights compliance in law enforcement.

INSTITUTIONALISING HUMAN RIGHTS IN SECURITY FORCES

A key work area has been the LSF’s support to Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) at the Nigerian Defence Department for Civil-Military Cooperation (DDCMR). Initially delivered in collaboration with the British Defence Service (BDS), a series of workshops have supported a transition to Nigerian ownership, ensuring sustainable capacity-building. The training, which covered all branches of the Nigerian military, was also extended to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), reinforcing a regional approach to human rights-based security operations.

ADVANCING SECURITY SECTOR REFORM

LSF played a critical role in organising a national symposium on security and justice, which strengthened the Federal Government of Nigeria’s commitment to embedding human rights principles in military and security policies. Additionally, the “Enhancing Professionalism” police refresher training, designed by LSF, re-inforced the importance of human rights and survivor-centered principles to over 1,300 frontline officers, improving police conduct and engagement with communities.

FOSTERING COLLABORATION AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

In addition to technical interventions, LSF prioritised strategic engagement with key stakeholders. The programme hosted a lessons learned session, a cocktail reception in Abuja for the ISF and BDS teams, and an iftar in Maiduguri for security personnel, humanitarian actors, and civilian partners. Dignitaries such as AIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie and British Deputy High Commissioner Gill Lever commended LSF for its dedication and impact in enhancing security, justice, and human rights in the region.

LOOKING AHEAD

As LSF approaches its conclusion, its legacy of security sector reform and human rights integration will continue to shape policies and practices across Nigeria and the broader Lake Chad Basin. Through strategic partnerships and capacity-building initiatives, the project has laid the groundwork for a more accountable, just, and inclusive security framework.