ECOWAS, AES Must Unite to Defeat Terrorism, Defence Minister Urges
Oru Leonard
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence has called for stronger security cooperation between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), saying only a united regional approach can effectively tackle terrorism, cross-border crime and insecurity in West Africa.
Speaking on arrival in Cotonou, Benin Republic, for a three-day working visit to harmonise regional defence strategies, the Minister stressed the need for closer collaboration to combat insurgency, protect land borders and enhance security across the Gulf of Guinea.
He was received at Cotonou International Airport by Benin’s Minister of National Defence, Gildas Agonkan.
Addressing defence officials, the Minister said the region’s evolving security challenges require an inclusive and coordinated response. He urged the leadership of ECOWAS and AES to work together to prevent the spread of insurgency across borders while strengthening maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.
In his remarks, Benin’s Defence Minister commended Nigeria’s leadership in promoting stability across West Africa, highlighting the country’s interventions in support of democratic governance. He also praised the performance of the Nigerian Army contingent during Benin’s National Day parade on August 1, describing Nigeria as a vital partner in combating transnational crime.
During the visit, the Minister met with Nigerian troops stationed at Togbin, where he reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to improving troop welfare, enhancing operational effectiveness and strengthening the capacity of the Armed Forces.
He also visited the Nigeria House in Cotonou, where Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Mrs. Mopelola Ibrahim, reiterated that Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement with Benin remains focused on expanding bilateral trade and deepening joint border surveillance to address shared security concerns.
