The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has activated its standby force to combat terrorism in the region. This follows the announcement made in October last year regarding the formation of a 5,000-strong kinetic force aimed at addressing terrorism in West Africa.
Speaking at the 43rd ordinary meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Abuja on Tuesday, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, emphasized that the activation of the force highlights the collective commitment of member countries to confront terrorism.
Badaru stated, “Central to our discussions are key issues, including the ECOWAS Standby Force, peace support operations, and maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. We will work together to create a strategy to enhance security in the region. This activation shows our shared determination to address terrorism and ensure regional security.”
He also expressed his gratitude to all parties involved for their ongoing dedication to the region’s security, adding that the deliberations would be driven by unity, purpose, and resolve.
In his address, Dr. Abdel-Fatau Musah, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, assured that despite the recent withdrawal of three countries—Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—ECOWAS would continue facilitating the free movement of people and goods across its member states.
He also pointed out that the organization is taking steps to manage the consequences of these withdrawals, including preparing contingency plans. “Although these countries have withdrawn, we remain open to re-engaging with them,” he said.
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, highlighted the importance of security in promoting economic growth. He urged military leaders to collaborate across borders, leveraging intelligence and resources to address the region’s security challenges. He also outlined key areas for discussion, such as reviewing pledges for the ECOWAS Standby Force and tackling maritime security.
