The Counter Terrorist Unit (CTU) is a specialized elite formation of the Nigeria Police Force established in 2007 as a full-fledged strike force dedicated to countering terrorism and related national security threats. Operating directly under the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of the CTU at Force Headquarters, Abuja, the unit forms a core component of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism architecture. It focuses on building tactical readiness through continuous specialized training, intelligence analysis, and rapid deployment capabilities to address evolving threats such as terrorism, banditry, violent extremism, and organized crime across the country.

In practice, the CTU carries out combat operations, investigations into acts of terrorism and violent crimes, and the protection of critical national infrastructure. It collaborates with international partners (including recent training programs with the British High Commission) and maintains strategic bases nationwide. In 2026, the Inspector-General of Police approved new CTU bases in Madagali (Adamawa State), Ikot Odo (Cross River State), and Ode-Remo (Ogun State), along with additional personnel deployments to enhance rapid response and operational coverage in high-threat areas.