United Front: ECOWAS Chiefs Strategise on Regional Security
United Front: ECOWAS Chiefs Strategise on Regional Security
United Front: ECOWAS Chiefs Strategise on Regional Security
By Ayshatu S. Rabo
The Defence Minister, Alhaji Muhammed Badaru, has emphasised the necessity for enhanced joint efforts to counter terrorism, manage cross-border crimes, and address hybrid threats within the West African sub-region.
Speaking at the 42nd Ordinary Meeting of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff on Wednesday, Badaru urged member states to work towards greater transparency in safeguarding their nations and promoting sustainable development.
Badaru highlighted the importance of the meeting as a platform to tackle the collective security challenges facing the West African region.
“The security landscape of West Africa is marked by complex challenges and opportunities for cooperation,” he stated.
“Joint efforts in countering terrorism, managing cross-border crimes, and addressing hybrid threats, as well as enhancing transparency, are vital to safeguarding our nations and promoting sustainable development.”
Badaru underscored the necessity of a unified response to the various levels of security threats faced daily. He called for greater collaboration, intelligence sharing, and coordinated strategies among the nations to address common threats effectively.
“Our collective strengths and shared expertise are crucial in addressing these issues and working towards lasting solutions,” he emphasised.
The meeting also featured significant contributions from the Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, ECOWAS, Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah. Musah discussed the directives issued to the committee following the forceful takeover of government in Niger in 2023.
He revealed that the defence chiefs were instructed to activate the standby force to restore constitutional order in Niger if necessary.
Musah highlighted the ongoing activities of terrorist armed groups, violent inter-communal conflicts, and transnational organised crime networks that continue to undermine peace and security in the region.
“The littoral states are also feeling the pressure of terrorists from the Sahel, with recent incursions into Northern Togo and Northern Benin,” he noted.
He expressed hope that the meeting’s deliberations and recommendations would further energise and galvanise the region towards peaceful, stable, and prosperous ECOWAS states.
The event saw attendance from high-profile figures, including the Nigerian Ministers of Defence, Foreign Affairs, and Interior, as well as other service chiefs. The Chairman of the Senate and House Committee on Defence, Sen. Ahmed Lawan, and Babajimi Benson were also present.
As the meeting progressed, the focus remained on fostering international defence opportunities and strengthening security cooperation.
Badaru encouraged open and consultative guidelines, experience sharing, and innovative solutions through collaboration with partners.
“Our discussions over the coming years will undoubtedly enhance our security cooperation and international defence opportunities,” he asserted.
This strategic dialogue among the ECOWAS defence chiefs is expected to bolster the collective resolve for a peaceful, stable, and secure West African region, addressing both current and emerging threats with a united front.
United Front: ECOWAS Chiefs Strategise on Regional Security
