KEY POINTS
- ECOWAS warns terrorism threatens West African stability.
- Regional cooperation essential to curb economic and violent attacks.
- ECOWAS Standby Force to strengthen cross-border security efforts.
Dr Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, has warned that rising terrorism poses an existential threat to West Africa.
He briefed the UN Security Council on counterterrorism efforts on Friday in Abuja. Touray emphasized that extremists are now targeting trade and fuel infrastructure.
The surge in attacks threatens both Sahelian and coastal states. “This economic warfare is undermining regional stability and livelihoods,” he said. Touray underlined ECOWAS’ commitment to political dialogue and regional cooperation.
The briefing highlighted collaboration with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to address extremism drivers.
He also noted the importance of rebuilding trust with member states recently affected by military coups.
ECOWAS boosts counterterrorism and regional security initiatives
Touray outlined both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to combat terrorism. He stressed the accelerated operationalization of the ECOWAS Standby Force. “ECOWAS is working closely with the UN, AU, and partners to safeguard peace,” he said.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres also briefed the council. Guterres decried worsening security and humanitarian conditions in the Sahel. He called for coordinated regional and international action to curb extremism.
The meeting was chaired by President Julius Bio of Sierra Leone. Bio stressed that terrorism is a problem that affects everyone and needs everyone to work together to solve it. ECOWAS is still focused on blending military preparation with political, social, and economic agendas.
Touray’s speech made it clear how important it is to develop regional security frameworks right away. The briefing made it clear that working together across borders is important for staying strong. ECOWAS wants to help development and humanitarian aid while also making things more stable.
