In a bold and unprecedented move, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially activated its long-planned standby military force to combat escalating terrorism in the region. This decision comes at a time when the regional bloc is facing its deepest internal crisis, following the withdrawal of three key member states—Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—raising questions about ECOWAS’ unity and effectiveness.
Speaking at the 43rd ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff meeting in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, announced the deployment of the force, emphasizing that the region must take decisive action against the growing threat of terrorism. While details on operational strategies remain unclear, the move signals a shift toward military intervention amid rising instability.
Meanwhile, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, Abdel-Fatau Musah, sought to downplay the recent departures, insisting that free movement of people and goods would still be allowed for citizens of the three breakaway nations. However, skepticism remains high as the region grapples with mounting insecurity and political fractures.
With General Christopher Musa warning that economic progress is impossible without stability, military leaders are under pressure to justify the necessity of this intervention. As ECOWAS pushes forward with its military strategy, critics argue that the organization must first address its own political divisions before attempting to restore peace in the region.
