By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has stressed the need for collective commitment to address terrorism, violent extremism, and humanitarian challenges threatening ECOWAS unity and stability.
This was disclosed by the Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, Barr. Henshaw Ogubike.
He said the charge was given at the ECOWAS Defence and Finance Ministers’ meeting in Abuja.
“The meeting aimed to provide actionable recommendations for financing and equipping the ECOWAS counter-terrorism forces, with a focus on crafting a sustainable financing model that addresses immediate security threats and lays the foundation for long-term stability and resilience.
“The Minister expressed Nigeria’s deep concern over the continued security challenges in the region, including terrorism, violent extremism, and humanitarian crises. He noted that several attempts have been made to address these challenges, including the instruction by ECOWAS Heads of State and Government to operationalize the ECOWAS Standby Force.
“The Minister charged his colleagues to fine-tune the recommendations and develop a robust solution to the region’s security problems. He emphasized the need for a critical review of financing options, considering the current challenges and financial constraints facing member states.
“We must work together with determination and unity of purpose to achieve a safer and more secure ECOWAS region,” He said that the region’s collective commitment is vital in crafting a sustainable financing model that will address the immediate security threats and lays the foundation for long-term stability and resilience in our region,” the press release added.
