ECOWAS approves emergency security funding for five countries amid rising terror threats

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has approved emergency security funding for five member states as part of renewed efforts to confront terrorism and growing insecurity across the region.

At its 68th Ordinary Session in Abuja, the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government directed the ECOWAS Commission to disburse US$2.85 million each to Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria and Togo. The funds will be drawn from the Regional Security Fund and released subject to a review of the approved Plan of Action.

The decision follows escalating security challenges in West Africa, including terrorism, banditry and kidnappings. ECOWAS leaders strongly condemned the recent wave of attacks, particularly the abduction of schoolchildren in northern Nigeria, and expressed solidarity with the Nigerian people.

The Authority commended Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for swift measures taken to secure the release of victims and to strengthen actions aimed at tackling insecurity.

Leaders of the sub-regional bloc reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating terrorism and called on the international community, including the African Union and the United Nations Security Council, to urgently and collectively support countries affected by terrorism.

ECOWAS also urged member states to maintain engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger to enhance cooperation in addressing the worsening security situation in the Sahel.

In addition, the Authority instructed the Commission to fast-track the operationalisation of the ECOWAS Regional Counterterrorism Brigade, including convening emergency meetings of the Committees of Chiefs of Intelligence Services and Chiefs of Defence Staff.

The emergency funding and renewed measures underscore ECOWAS’ resolve to protect lives, restore stability and strengthen collective security across West Africa.