The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff (CCDS) concluded its 42nd Ordinary Meeting on August 9, 2024, in Abuja, with a renewed focus on safeguarding democratic governance, peace, and stability across West Africa. The three-day gathering emphasized the need for collective action in addressing ongoing security challenges, particularly in Sierra Leone.

According to Exclusive Newspaper published today stated that a major outcome of the meeting was the assessment of the state of readiness of the ECOWAS Logistics Depot at Lungi, Sierra Leone, which is now over 90% complete. This facility is expected to play a crucial role in supporting ECOWAS missions in the region. General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria and Chairman of the CCDS, described the Depot’s near-completion as “a significant milestone” that demonstrates the region’s preparedness to tackle security threats.

The Defence Chiefs also discussed the forthcoming deployment of a 1,200-strong ECOWAS Security Mission to Sierra Leone, as mandated during the 64th Ordinary Summit of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in December 2023. The mission aims to stabilize Sierra Leone and bolster its security forces.

“Our commitment to Sierra Leone is unwavering,” said H.E. Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security. He assured that ECOWAS is ready to provide the necessary resources and support to maintain peace and stability in the country.

Terrorism was another key focus of the meeting, with Defence Chiefs reaffirming their commitment to activating the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF). An immediate priority is the establishment of a 1,650-man Counter-Terrorism Brigade, part of a larger 5,000-man force aimed at combating terrorism in the region.

“No single nation can combat terrorism alone,” General Musa stated, emphasizing the importance of regional unity in facing this threat.

The Defence Chiefs also met with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who praised their efforts and reiterated ECOWAS’s commitment to providing the necessary resources for their mission. “Your dedication to the security and democratic values of our region is commendable,” President Tinubu said.

The meeting concluded with a visit to the Nigerian National Counterterrorism Center, where the Defence Chiefs explored ways to enhance collaboration in the fight against terrorism. As ECOWAS moves forward with its plans, the Lungi Logistics Depot is expected to play a pivotal role in maintaining peace and stability in Sierra Leone and the broader West African region.