ECOWAS Ministers Convene in Abuja to Tackle Regional Security Issues at the 52nd Ordinary Session of The ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council at Ministerial Level

The 52nd Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council (MSC) at the Ministerial Level held at the ECOWAS Commission Headquarters in Abuja on July 3, 2024. The meeting which was chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, brought together Ministers responsible for Foreign Affairs and Defence from ECOWAS Member States.

In his welcome statement, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E Dr. Omar Alieu Touray emphasized the importance of addressing regional security and political issues, highlighting democratic transitions and peaceful elections in various member states. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray noted the critical need to combat terrorism and violent extremism, and to address food insecurity through coordinated regional efforts. “Efforts are in top gear to operationalize the ECOWAS Standby Force to combat terrorism and restore constitutional order where it is threatened,” he stated.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria and the Chair of the Council, H.E. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, stressed the importance of regional cooperation and collective action in addressing security challenges. Mr. Tuggar, acknowledged the significant efforts made by member states in upholding democratic values and emphasized the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures. “The responsibility to safeguard our region’s stability and security lies with all member states, and our collaborative efforts are crucial,” he stated.

The Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security H.E Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah outlined the severe security threats facing the region, such as terrorism, organized crime, and climate-induced crises. Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah called for inclusive and innovative governance strategies to enhance regional stability and peace. “The necessity for robust regional cooperation and the operationalization of the ECOWAS Standby Force cannot be overemphasized,” he noted.

While delivering her remarks, the Vice President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E Mrs Damtien Tchintchibidja emphasised the ECOWAS Management’s commitment to addressing the political and security issues facing the region and called for the continuing support of members states in this endeavor.

The agenda highlights included enhancing the region’s security infrastructure to counter-terrorism and organized crime, addressing urgent humanitarian needs from conflicts and climate crises, reviewing and strengthening the ECOWAS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan, and promoting inclusive governance to restore and strengthen the social contract between states and citizens.

The council adopted a comprehensive agenda aimed at fostering peace, security, and stability in the ECOWAS region. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to collaborative efforts and proactive measures to tackle the multifaceted challenges facing West Africa.