Why ECOWAS must initiate comprehensive, sustainable strategy on security needs of sub-region – Badaru
By Emma Ogbuehi
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has called on member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), to foster collaboration and solidarity in the face of emerging threats of terrorism, organized crimes, climate change and other forms of criminalities in the sub-region.
The Minister made the remarks while opening the 43rd Ordinary Meeting of ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Abuja. He emphasized the urgent need for a unified approach to addressing the pressing security challenges facing the West African sub-region as well as highlighted the complexities of the current security landscape, noting that the rise of global populism and revisionist ideologies has heightened the vulnerability of the region.
Badaru asserted that economic growth and sustainable peace are intrinsically linked, urging member states to foster collaboration and solidarity in the face of emerging threats, including terrorism, organized crime, climate change, cyber-crime, and pandemics.
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“The imperative for us in the sub-region is 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”, the Minister was quoted to have said, according to a release by Iyogun Sunday for Director (Information and Public Relations).
The Minister underscored the significance of the discussions planned for the meeting, which will focus on critical issues such as the ECOWAS Standby Force, Peace Support Operations, and Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea. He expressed confidence that the deliberations would be characterized by collaboration, innovation, and a shared determination to craft sustainable strategies that address the security needs of the region.
Badaru also announced the activation of the ECOWAS Standby Force, a pivotal step in the collective fight against terrorism and insurgency, reinforcing the commitment of member states to ensure the safety and security of their citizens.
He expressed profound gratitude to the Chiefs of Defence Staff for their unwavering dedication and professionalism in safeguarding the well-being of the people of West Africa. He urged all participants to approach the discussions with purpose and unity, recognizing the potential of their collective efforts to shape a more secure and prosperous future for the sub-region.
