ECOWAS Activates Standby Force to Combat Terrorism in West Africa

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially deployed its standby force to address the escalating threat of terrorism in the region. This follows its October 2024 announcement of a 5,000-strong kinetic force to enhance regional security.

At the 43rd Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, reaffirmed the collective commitment of member states. “By leveraging our expertise and resources, we can foster peace, stability, and prosperity,” he stated, emphasizing the urgent need for a unified security strategy.

Despite the recent withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, ECOWAS remains committed to maintaining economic and social ties with their citizens. Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, assured that the free movement of people and goods would continue, aligning with ECOWAS’ vision of regional unity.

General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, called for enhanced cross-border collaboration to address security challenges. Discussions at the meeting focused on strengthening the ECOWAS Standby Force, establishing a Counter-Terrorist Brigade, and enhancing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.

This deployment marks a significant step in ECOWAS’ efforts to safeguard the region, reinforcing its resolve to counter terrorism and instability.