The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) aims to raise $2.6 billion per year for the training of a security force of 5,000 men dedicated to the fight against terrorism. This proposal was discussed at a meeting of ECOWAS Defense and Finance Ministers, held on Thursday, June 27, 2024 in Abuja, Nigeria.
The main objective of the meeting was to determine the size and funding needed for this force.
Two options are being considered for the creation of this regional force. The first, at a cost of $2.6 billion per year, provides for a brigade of 5,000 men, while the second option proposes a force of 1,500 soldiers for $481 million.
Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Nigerian Minister of Defence, stressed that the figures show the magnitude of the task ahead, making it essential to critically examine the options taking into account current challenges and the financial concerns of Member States.
According to available information, this regional force will be exclusively responsible for combating terrorism and will not intervene in the event of a coup d’état in a member country. Each ECOWAS State will have to contribute financially to this force.
Omar Touray, chairman of the ECOWAS commission, said it is impossible to fight terrorism in isolation, and even countries under suspension must be allowed to participate in security meetings. This is why all 15 Member States were invited to this crucial meeting.
