Defence Minister Says That No Nation Can Confront Regional Security Challenges Alone

The Minister of Defence State, Dr. Bello Matawalle, has emphasized the need for regional cooperation among West African nations in addressing the security challenges in the region. In the Gala Night during the 43rd Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Abuja, Matawalle emphasized regional cooperation to counter terrorism, insurgency, maritime insecurity, and transnational crime.

Matawalle expressed Nigeria's appreciation for the commitment of ECOWAS military commanders to the shared vision of peace, harmony, and regional advancement. He noted the significant progress in confronting these security challenges through cooperation, military cooperation, sharing of intelligence, and capacity building.

"No nation can deal with these challenges alone," he insisted, insisting on greater coordination among nations within the region. The Minister appealed to the gathering to reaffirm their loyalty to professionalism, determination, and fraternity in the mission for collective defense with the vision to build a more secure and prosperous West Africa.".

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Christopher Musa also addressed the gathering, stating that it was a moment of great importance in the quest to improve regional security. He urged defence heads in ECOWAS to reflect on shared goals and renew their commitment towards the enhancement of peace, stability, and development in the region. Musa was sure that the negotiations would be followed up with concrete steps to move forward the security and prosperity of the region.