Defence Minister Calls for Stronger ECOWAS–Sahel Cooperation Against Terrorism
Defence Minister Calls for Stronger ECOWAS–Sahel Cooperation Against Terrorism
Defence Minister Calls for Stronger ECOWAS–Sahel Cooperation Against Terrorism
The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.), OFR, has called for stronger cooperation between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to confront terrorism, transnational crime and other emerging security threats across the region.
General Musa made the call during his three-day working visit to Cotonou, Republic of Benin, where he engaged regional stakeholders on strengthening defence partnerships and coordinating collective responses to security challenges confronting West Africa.
The Defence Minister stressed that terrorism, violent extremism, cross-border criminality and maritime insecurity do not recognise national boundaries, making regional cooperation, intelligence sharing and coordinated security operations essential to protecting the people and future of West Africa.
He advocated the development of a stronger and more responsive regional security framework capable of addressing the evolving nature of threats across the region, particularly along shared borders and the Gulf of Guinea.
Minister Reassures Nigerian Troops of Government Support
As part of his engagements in Benin Republic, General Musa visited Nigerian troops stationed at Togbin, where he conveyed the assurances of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the welfare and operational effectiveness of Nigerian military personnel deployed in the region.
The Minister commended the troops for their courage, professionalism and sacrifices in the service of the nation, noting that their contributions remain critical to Nigeria’s national security and the country’s broader efforts to promote peace and stability in West Africa.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to continuously improving the welfare, equipment and operational capabilities of personnel deployed in defence of Nigeria’s interests.
Defence Minister Visits Nigeria House
General Musa also visited Nigeria House in Cotonou, where he was received by Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Mrs. Mopelola Ibrahim.
The engagements formed part of Nigeria’s broader diplomatic and defence efforts to strengthen relations with neighbouring countries and promote coordinated responses to shared security challenges.
The Defence Minister reaffirmed that Nigeria remains committed to working closely with its neighbours and regional partners to build a safer, more stable and prosperous West Africa, stressing that collective action remains essential to defeating terrorism and transnational criminal networks.
Defence Minister Calls for Stronger ECOWAS–Sahel Cooperation Against Terrorism
