Defence Minister urges stronger security cooperation at ECOWAS Defence Chiefs Meeting

Kunle Sanni

Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru has urged the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff to bolster their security cooperation to enhance regional defence capabilities against security threats.

Speaking at the 42nd Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Abuja, Badaru highlighted the importance of collective efforts in addressing terrorism, cross-border crimes, and hybrid threats.

He stressed the need for strengthened regional security cooperation to safeguard nations and promote sustainable development.

The meeting, which commenced today, gathered top military leaders from across West Africa to tackle the region’s pressing security concerns.

Key issues on the agenda, according to a statement by Henshaw Ogubike Director (Information and Public Relations) include the proposed ECOWAS Security Support Mission in Sierra Leone, ongoing peace operations, and the operationalization of the ECOWAS Standby Force.

Badaru encouraged open dialogue, shared expertise, and collaborative solutions to enhance regional security cooperation and defence capabilities.

While he reaffirmed the commitment to achieving peace and security in West Africa, the Minister said the security landscape of West Africa is presently marked by both complex challenges and called for joint efforts towards countering terrorism, managing cross- border crimes amongst others in the region.