The Nigerian Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru has called on ECOWAS Defence Ministers to unite and work with determination to achieve a safer and more secure region.
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru while speaking at the ECOWAS Defence and Finance Ministers’ meeting in Abuja, emphasized the need for collective commitment to address terrorism, violent extremism, and humanitarian challenges threatening the region’s unity and stability.
A statement by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Henshaw Ogubike said the meeting aimed to provide actionable recommendations for financing and equipping the ECOWAS counter-terrorism forces.
The meeting focuses 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 lay the foundation for long-term stability and resilience in our region.
Lantana Nasir
