Nigeria urges unified strategy to tackle West Africa’s security challenges

By Kunle Sanni

The Nigerian Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has urged ECOWAS member states to enhance collaboration in addressing the escalating security threats in the West African sub-region.

Speaking at the opening of the 43rd Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Abuja, Badaru stressed the need for a comprehensive and sustainable security strategy to combat challenges such as terrorism, organized crime, cybercrime, climate change, and pandemics.

“The imperative for us in the sub-region to strengthen our bond and collective resolve is greater now than ever,” the Minister said. “We must recognize that we are only as strong as our weakest link.”

He warned that rising global populism and revisionist ideologies are increasing the region’s vulnerability, emphasizing that economic growth and security must go hand in hand.

A key highlight of the meeting was the activation of the ECOWAS Standby Force, a significant step in regional efforts to combat terrorism and insurgency.

The Minister noted that discussions would also focus on critical security issues, including Peace Support Operations and Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea.

Badaru commended the Chiefs of Defence Staff for their dedication and urged them to approach the discussions with unity and purpose.

He expressed confidence that the deliberations would yield innovative and effective strategies to safeguard the region.