A delegation from Sierra Leone is actively participating in an Extraordinary Summit convened by the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja, Nigeria.

The summit, which commenced on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at the ECOWAS Headquarters, aims to strategize on mobilizing internal financial, human, and material resources to support a regional counter-terrorism force.

The primary objective of the summit is for the Ministers of Defence and Finance from ECOWAS member states to deliberate and agree on a comprehensive plan to fund the activation of a Regional Stand-by Force. This force will combat terrorism and address unconstitutional changes of government within the ECOWAS region.

The planned action by ECOWAS seeks to counter the growing threats of terrorism and the resurgence of unconstitutional changes in government, which have significantly impacted the peace, security, and stability of member states.

Representing Sierra Leone at the summit are Deputy Minister of Defense Colonel (Retired) Muana Brima Massaquoi, Deputy Minister of Finance (II) Bockarie Albert Kalokoh, Assistant Chief of Defence Staff for Operations and Plans Brigadier General Amara Idara Bangura, and Director of Budget at the Ministry of Finance Tasima Jah.

The Sierra Leonean delegation is expected to contribute to the development of a strategic plan to ensure the successful deployment of the regional counter-terrorism force.