Badaru seeks regional strategy to deny terrorists breeding ground in West Africa
Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has called for regional strategies to deny terror and insecurity any breeding ground in West Africa.
A statement by Mati Ali, a media aide to the minister, said Badaru made the call during the opening of the 43rd Ordinary Meeting of ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff, held in Abuja.
He said that the emerging threats of terrorism, organised crime, climate change and other forms of criminalities must be tackled collectively by all countries in the region.
The minister said there was urgent need for a unified approach to addressing the pressing security challenges facing the West African sub-region.
He 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 the emerging threats.
“The imperative for us in the sub-region is to strengthen our bond and collective resolve,” he stressed, adding that any weakness will expose all countries in the region to greater danger.
“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 Nigerian defence 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.
The minister expressed profound gratitude to the defence chiefs 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.
