Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, said that there is a need for members of Economic Community of Africa State, ECOWAS, to close ranks against all forms of threats in the region.
Badaru stated this at the 43rd ordinary meeting of ECOWAS Committee Chiefs of Defence Staff, CDS, in Abuja on Tuesday, highlighting the Centre of discussion, as regards security issues concerning the ECOWAS standby force, ECOWAS peace support operations, as well as maritime security at the Golf of Guinea.
“My charge this morning to you all is for you to take advantage of this gathering and mobilize against those threats and focus with a view to deny terror. I am confident that our deliberation will be matched by spirit of collaboration, innovation and determination as we work towards drafting a comprehensive strategy to address the security challenges in the sub region."
Badaru, reiterated their collective expertise, resources and commitment, the community can make a tangible impact on fostering peace, stability and prosperity in the sub-region, hence, announced the activation of the ECOWAS Standby Force to combat terrorism in the sub region.
The activation of this force underscores our collective determination to confront the stretch of terrorism with regards to the security of the sub region, and to ensure the safety and security of the citizens.
Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner on Political Affairs, Peace and Security, said Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger has formally withdrawn their memberships from ECOWAS.
He urged the gathering to critically examine the implications of the withdrawal of three African countries on regional security in the course of deliberations, stressing that the community is willing to welcome the trio back to its fold.
