Abuja: President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Touray, has announced that the regional bloc needs approximately $2.61 billion to operationalise its proposed 5,000-strong ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF). Touray revealed this during a joint meeting of ECOWAS Ministers of Finance and Defence in Abuja, aimed at finalising the modalities for mobilising funds to activate the regional anti-terrorism force.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the president emphasised that terrorism remains a significant threat to regional integration, prompting ECOWAS leaders to prioritise the creation of a military response force. Touray highlighted that the emergence of terrorist activities within and around West Africa is a serious concern for governments and citizens, threatening international trade, disrupting regional commerce, and restricting free movement across borders.

Citing the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2025 report, Touray noted that Africa has become the global epicentre of terrorism, overtaking the Middle East. He pointed out that the Sahel region, in particular, has experienced a surge in terrorist operations due to political instability, weak governance, and prolonged conflicts. In response, ECOWAS has adopted a multi-dimensional approach to counter-terrorism, including the development of a comprehensive strategy and the establishment of the Standby Force.

Touray recalled that at a previous meeting in June 2024, the ministers discussed extensively on activating the standby force to combat both terrorism and unconstitutional changes of government in the region. He described the creation of the 5,000-man force as a top priority to restore peace and stability in the ECOWAS sub-region.

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar, also addressed the meeting, emphasising the growing threats of terrorism, violent extremism, and transnational crime in the region. He stressed the importance of aligning strategic objectives with sustainable funding mechanisms, suggesting options such as adjustments to the Community Levy and GDP-based contributions.

Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Defence, retired Col. Brima Massaquoi, highlighted the broader role of ECOWAS in economic integration and conflict resolution. Despite progress, he noted ongoing challenges such as political instability and humanitarian crises. Massaquoi urged for inclusive and innovative financing models, including partnerships with regional financial institutions and Public-Private Partnerships, to enhance counter-terrorism efforts.