According to a report by Punch news on Thursday, 04, 07, 2024, The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has called upon the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to unite in tackling the root causes of insecurity plaguing the region.
Speaking at the 52nd session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council in Abuja, Tuggar highlighted the alarming toll of terrorism, with over 7,000 deaths recorded from more than 800 incidents between January and May 2024, particularly affecting Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali.
Tuggar, who chairs the council, emphasized the urgent need for collective action against terrorism and violent extremism, stressing that these threats jeopardize the stability and development of West Africa. He underscored that combating terrorism is a shared responsibility among all ECOWAS member states, urging unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and securing the region's future.
"Terrorism disregards borders; it affects every country within ECOWAS, necessitating a unified approach to confront this menace effectively," Tuggar stated. He called for enhanced regional cooperation, intensified intelligence sharing, and adequate funding for ECOWAS' counter-terrorism efforts.
In addition to addressing immediate security challenges, Tuggar emphasized the importance of tackling underlying issues such as climate change, migration, organized crime, and economic disparities. He stressed the need to build stable foundations that reduce inequality, poverty, and strengthen democratic institutions across the region.
The minister acknowledged ECOWAS' ongoing peace operations in countries like Guinea-Bissau and The Gambia, along with plans for a stabilization mission in Sierra Leone. He also highlighted humanitarian efforts, including disaster risk reduction and relief initiatives for affected communities.
As discussions progressed within the council, Tuggar urged members to uphold principles of peace, democracy, rule of law, and good governance. He concluded by urging collective dedication towards enhancing security and prosperity throughout West Africa, for the benefit of current and future generations.
Meanwhile, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, expressed concern over challenges in regional integration posed by ongoing issues with the Alliance of Sahelian States. He highlighted governance challenges, development deficits, and evolving geopolitical dynamics as further obstacles to regional cohesion and progress.
Touray emphasized the importance of resolving internal disputes and strengthening regional cooperation to overcome these challenges, underscoring the commitment to fostering unity and security across the African sub-region.