ECOWAS plans $2.5 billion regional anti-terrorism Force to combat decade-long security crisis
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) wants to go on the offensive against terrorism that has been striking the region for more than a decade. The organization is considering the creation of a rapid deployment regional anti-terrorism brigade, consisting of 260,000 personnel, with an annual budget estimated at $2.5 billion.
This project, discussed during the recent summit of African chiefs of staff in the region, aims to pool resources and address the limitations of national strategies that are often fragmented and poorly coordinated.
The funding should cover the recruitment and training of troops, as well as logistical support, modern equipment, and assistance to countries most exposed to jihadist attacks.
For regional leaders, this initiative reflects a collective awakening. A joint force would enable a faster response to attacks, while restoring confidence among populations weary of the ineffectiveness of current arrangements.
This direction marks a paradigm shift in security: ECOWAS now wants to regain the initiative against armed groups, rather than simply endure the threat.
