Nigeria’s Defence Minister calls for stronger ECOWAS collaboration against security threats

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has urged ECOWAS member states to strengthen collaboration in tackling security threats such as terrorism, organized crime, and climate change.

He made this call on Wednesday while opening the 43rd Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Abuja.

In a statement signed by Iyogun Sunday on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations, the Minister emphasized the urgent need for a unified approach to the sub-region’s security challenges.

He noted that global populism and revisionist ideologies had heightened vulnerabilities, making cooperation among West African nations more critical than ever.

“The imperative for us in the sub-region to strengthen our bond and collective resolve is greater now than ever.

“We must recognize that we are collectively as strong as our weakest link. It is essential that we close ranks against these threats and refocus our strategy to deny terror and insecurity a breeding ground”, Badaru stated.

The meeting is expected to focus on key security issues, including the ECOWAS Standby Force, Peace Support Operations, and Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea.

The Minister announced the activation of the ECOWAS Standby Force as a significant step in the region’s fight against terrorism and insurgency, reinforcing the commitment of member states to protecting their citizens.

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

He expressed confidence that the deliberations would produce innovative and sustainable security strategies, shaping a safer and more prosperous West Africa.