The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) convened an extraordinary meeting of Ministers of Defence and Ministers of Finance on 27 June 2024 in Abuja, Nigeria. The meeting was based on directives from the Authority of Heads of State and Government, aiming to explore funding options for activating a regional force to combat terrorism and restore constitutional order.
H.E. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, emphasized the urgency of mobilizing internal resources to support the regional counter-terrorism force. He highlighted the worsening security situation in the region, particularly in the Sahel, and stressed the need for collective efforts. President Touray called for a phased approach starting with a 1,500-man brigade and the establishment of an ECOWAS Force Command Post.
The Committee of Chiefs of Staff presented their conclusions from a March 2023 meeting in Bissau, recommending a 5,000-man brigade to be deployed in stages. They emphasized coordination of operational initiatives and urgent mobilization of capabilities. The participants adopted the report with amendments and formed a small team to refine the proposal within one month while expediting resource mobilization.
Minister of Defence of Nigeria and Chair of the meeting, H.E. Muhammad Badaru Musa, stressed unity and cooperation in addressing regional security challenges during his keynote address. He stated, “Our task today is to mobilize the necessary resources to fund our Regional Action Plan against terrorism.” He added that determination and unity are essential to achieving a safer and more secure ECOWAS region.
The meeting marked a significant step towards enhancing regional stability and resilience.
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