The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is currently deliberating a significant proposal: a $2.6 billion annual budget aimed at establishing a regional standby force. This force would play a crucial role in countering terrorism and preventing unconstitutional changes of government within the region. The proposal was disclosed during a recent meeting of ECOWAS security and finance chiefs in Abuja.
Nigerian Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar, revealed that the proposed regional standby force could comprise up to 5,000 personnel. However, an alternative plan for a smaller contingent of 1,650 troops at an annual cost of $481 million is also under consideration. Abubakar emphasized the financial implications of these proposals, highlighting the need for a robust and sustainable resource mobilization strategy to support the initiative.
The gathering of ECOWAS Defence and Finance Ministers is driven by the urgent need to address pressing security challenges in the region. Terrorism and violent extremism continue to threaten collective existence, prompting ECOWAS Heads of State to issue a directive in December 2022. The directive called for immediate action to combat the growing threat of terrorism in West Africa.
ECOWAS Commission President, Omar Alliou Touray, underscored the critical nature of the situation. The Sahel region has become “the epicenter of terrorism,” accounting for over half of all terrorism-related deaths globally in 2023. Some member states have even lost control of important parts of their territories to terrorist groups. The ongoing security challenges have also led to a humanitarian crisis, with millions of internally displaced persons and refugees.
Touray urged collective action to address insecurity and establish a more secure environment for economic growth and development. The proposed regional standby force represents a pivotal moment in the history of the ECOWAS community. By mobilizing financial resources effectively, the organization aims to implement its Regional Action Plan against terrorism.
In summary, ECOWAS is taking decisive steps to enhance security and stability in West Africa. The proposed budget allocation for the regional standby force reflects the gravity of the task ahead and the commitment to safeguarding the region from terrorist threats.
