Ecowas activates counter-terrorism force

Security analysts are praising Ecowas, the Economic Community of West African States, for activating its regional standby force but remain doubtful about its effectiveness following the recent withdrawal of three member states, reports Voice of America. The force, expected to comprise 5 000 troops, is part of a broader regional security strategy to curb terrorism and cross-border crimes. Nigerian Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar said the initiative aims to mobilise personnel and resources to combat terrorism spreading across the subregion and urged security counterparts to seize the opportunity and coordinate efforts against threats. Security analyst Kabiru Adamu welcomed the move but expressed concerns about its effectiveness. ‘The last detail that we know, even though that could change, is that it will have two operational bases within the subregion,’ said Adamu. ‘We know that the ability to even acquire the 5 000-man troops has been a bit challenged. The countries that initially agreed to contribute, three of them are no longer with Ecowas. So now Ecowas will have to look back within its members to see who among them will augment the gap.’ In late January, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger withdrew from Ecowas and created a confederation known as the Alliance of Sahel States, after a year-long dispute with the bloc. The three military-led nations accused the regional body of failing to protect its members while allegedly serving foreign interests. Despite their exit, Ecowas has stated it will maintain trade and security relations with the trio. Jihadist groups, including Boko Haram and Islamic State's Sahel affiliate, have taken advantage of political instability and public resentment to recruit and expand their influence. With almost all the Ecowas countries facing internal security challenges, observers are watching to see whether the regional force can shift the status quo amid strained co-operation.

Full Voice of America report