By Victor Akaa.
The Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Chairman Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Committee of the Chiefs of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has emphasised the importance of unity in addressing regional security concerns.
He disclosed this during the 43rd Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff kicked off on Tuesday in Abuja, Nigeria.
General Musa noted that collaboration of the member states and critical stakeholders within the subregion will curb the numerous security threats bedeviling the region.
“The complexity of the security landscape demands that we leverage our collective expertise, intelligence assets, and coordinate our efforts across borders.
“We must support our political leadership by entrenching conducive and secure environments for economic development to thrive.” He stated.
The CDS noted that the 43rd ordinary meeting is a follow-up to previous deliberations, aimed at exchanging and building on ideas and efforts in their shared commitment to fostering and establishing a secure environment for the safety and well-being of people in the subregion.
General Musa emphasised that the participants’ valuable insights and experiences were crucial to achieving their shared goals, and that genuine commitment and constructive engagement were essential for meaningful dialogue.
He urged the attendees to actively share ideas and strategies for everyone’s benefit and to acknowledge and honour the sacrifices of brave men and women in uniform who work tirelessly to maintain peace and stability within the subregion.
General Musa expressed gratitude to the Chairman of the ECOWAS Head of States and Government, the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their support and commitment to regional security.
In his remarks, the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar emphasised the importance of collective action in addressing regional security challenges
He stressed that the sub-region must strengthen its bond and collective resolve to combat emerging threats, including terrorism, organised crime, and climate change.
The minister urged participants to leverage their collective expertise, resources, and commitment to make a tangible impact in fostering peace, stability, and prosperity in the sub-region.
Enugu Reporters noted that the meeting highlighted key agenda items including reviewing pledges for the ECOWAS Standby Force, considering pledges for the Counterterrorist Brigade, and addressing Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea.
The meeting has drawn dignitaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, ECOWAS Commission President, and Honourable Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar.
