THE Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially activated its regional standby force in a renewed effort to tackle terrorism and cross-border crimes in West Africa. However, security analysts remain cautious about the force’s potential effectiveness, especially after the recent departure of three member states from the bloc, according to a report by Voice of America (VOA).
Nigerian Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar made the announcement on Tuesday during the 43rd ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff meeting. He confirmed that the force will comprise 5,000 troops and will be a key component of the regional strategy to curb escalating terrorist threats in the region.
‘The activation of the ECOWAS standby force underscores our collective determination to confront terrorism and insecurity and to ensure the safety of our citizens,’ said Abubakar at the security meeting.
Focus on counterterrorism and regional stability
The newly launched force will focus on combating terrorism, supporting peace operations, and enhancing maritime security, particularly in areas such as the Gulf of Guinea. The initiative comes at a critical time, as West Africa continues to grapple with rising insecurity and extremist violence.
The 2024 Global Terrorism Index identified Africa’s Sahel region as the world’s epicentre of terrorism, accounting for over half of global terror-related deaths. This marks a sharp escalation, with fatalities rising nearly tenfold since 2019.
ECOWAS leaders believe the standby force will bolster the region’s ability to respond to these threats. However, security experts say logistical and political challenges could hinder its effectiveness.
Member withdrawals raise concerns
Security analyst Kabiru Adamu welcomed ECOWAS’ activation of the force but voiced concerns about its viability. ‘At this point, we know that there will be two operational bases within the subregion,’ Adamu said, adding that deploying 5,000 troops has proven difficult.
The withdrawal of three key countries—Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—from ECOWAS in January 2025 has complicated matters. The three nations, led by military governments, accused the bloc of serving foreign interests and failing to protect its members. In response, they formed their own security alliance known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
Despite the split, Adamu noted that security cooperation between ECOWAS and the AES continues on both bilateral and multilateral fronts. ‘We’re hoping that in spite of the exit, all sides will see the necessity to continue to engage in defence and security cooperation,’ he told VOA.
Terrorism threats exploit instability
Jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State’s Sahel affiliate have capitalised on political instability and public dissatisfaction to expand their influence across the region. Their recruitment efforts have intensified as governments struggle to maintain control and provide basic services in vulnerable areas.
Most ECOWAS member countries are contending with their own internal security crises, raising questions about whether the newly activated standby force can make a significant difference. Observers say strained relations among members and limited military capacity could delay rapid deployment.
Moving forward amid uncertainty
ECOWAS has pledged to maintain open communication with the AES despite the withdrawals. Leaders from both groups recognise the need for continued collaboration to address regional insecurity.
‘It’s encouraging that, despite political differences, there’s recognition on all sides that security cooperation is non-negotiable,’ said Adamu. However, he added that without adequate funding, resources, and unified political will, the success of the standby force remains uncertain.
The coming months will reveal whether ECOWAS can overcome internal divisions and deploy the force effectively to confront terrorism and stabilise the region. (Africabriefing)
