The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has authorized the deployment of a 1,200-strong peacekeeping force to Sierra Leone to stabilize the country, following a decisive meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff (CCDS) in Abuja, Nigeria.

The 42nd Ordinary meeting, chaired by General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria, focused on the readiness of armed and security forces within the ECOWAS framework. Key discussions included the operational capabilities, personnel, and logistics required for effective deployment.

The peacekeeping force is part of the operationalization of the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF), specifically the ECOWAS Counter-Terrorism Force (CTForce). The CCDS also reviewed the ECOWAS Logistics Depot in Lungi, Sierra Leone, which is reported to be over 90 percent ready. Efforts to transfer logistical equipment to the facility are ongoing.

In addition to the Sierra Leone mission, the defense chiefs committed to establishing a 5,000-strong standby force aimed at countering terrorism across the region. A 1,650-person counter-terrorism brigade will initially spearhead this effort.

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The deployment of these forces will necessitate substantial financial resources. ECOWAS finance ministers are scheduled to meet later this month to finalize the funding plans. The Defense Chiefs emphasized their collective resolve to enhance regional stability and democratic governance, acknowledging the necessity for a united approach to address these challenges.