The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has approved emergency security funding for five member countries as part of intensified efforts to combat terrorism and growing insecurity in the region.
During its 68th Ordinary Session held in Abuja, the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government directed the ECOWAS Commission to allocate $2.85 million each from the Regional Security Fund to Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, and Togo. The disbursement is contingent upon a review of the approved Plan of Action.
The decision follows escalating security threats, including terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings across West Africa. ECOWAS leaders strongly condemned the recent surge in attacks, notably the abduction of schoolchildren in northern Nigeria, and expressed solidarity with the Nigerian people. The Authority also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the swift actions taken to secure the release of victims and intensify measures against insecurity.
Reaffirming their commitment to eradicating terrorism, ECOWAS leaders called on the international community, including the African Union and United Nations Security Council, to respond urgently and coordinate support for countries most affected by terrorism. The Authority further urged ongoing engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to enhance cooperation and address the worsening security situation, particularly in the Sahel.
Additionally, ECOWAS instructed the Commission to expedite the operationalisation of the Regional Counterterrorism Brigade by convening urgent meetings of intelligence and defense chiefs to advance the activation of the force.
These emergency measures and renewed security initiatives underscore ECOWAS’ determination to safeguard lives, restore stability, and strengthen collective security throughout West Africa.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
