The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is working to finalize funding plans for its proposed 5,000-strong Standby Force, expected to cost $2.61 billion annually.
Defence and Finance Ministers from member states met in Abuja on Thursday and Friday to agree on strategies for mobilizing resources to sustain the regional counterterrorism force. In the short term, ECOWAS plans to deploy 1,650 personnel at an estimated cost of $481.5 million, while discussions continue on long-term funding mechanisms.
ECOWAS Commission President, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, warned that escalating terrorist activities in the region threaten trade, investment, and integration efforts. He said the Sahel has recorded a sharp rise in attacks fueled by political instability, weak governance, and conflicts, stressing the urgency of a collective security response.
Touray noted that terrorism undermines the free movement of people, goods, and services across the region, and could erode economic and social cohesion. He outlined ECOWAS’ multi-faceted counterterrorism approach, including a comprehensive strategy, intelligence-sharing, and humanitarian interventions.
Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, described insecurity as a threat not only to peace but also to the region’s economic stability and democratic aspirations. He said the activation of the standby force was a “critical step” to protect citizens and uphold constitutional order.
He urged ministers to align security priorities with sustainable financing models, including adjustments to the community levy, GDP-based contributions, direct budgetary allocations, blended financing, and targeted partnerships.
Nigeria, he assured, remains committed to working with ECOWAS partners to develop transparent and predictable funding frameworks for the regional force.
