ECOWAS Condemns School Abductions, Plans Regional Anti-Terror Force by 2027
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has denounced the growing cases of banditry, kidnappings and school abductions in Northern Nigeria, while approving a revised plan to fully deploy a regional counter-terrorism force by July 2027.
In a communiqué issued after its summit, the regional bloc expressed concern over the worsening security situation across the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin, noting that terrorism, violent extremism and organised crime continue to threaten peace and development in West Africa.
ECOWAS specifically condemned the increasing abductions of schoolchildren in Northern Nigeria and reaffirmed its support for the country's efforts to address the security challenges. The organisation also acknowledged ongoing measures by the Nigerian government aimed at rescuing victims and strengthening national security operations.
As part of broader regional security efforts, leaders endorsed a revised roadmap for the establishment of the ECOWAS Counter-Terrorism Brigade, a multinational force expected to reach full operational capacity by July 2027.
The bloc urged member states to meet their financial obligations by settling outstanding Community Levy contributions to ensure adequate funding for regional security initiatives, including the planned brigade.
According to the communiqué, the force is expected to improve intelligence sharing, enhance cross-border security collaboration and strengthen collective responses to terrorism and other transnational threats.
ECOWAS also highlighted the humanitarian consequences of insecurity, including displacement, food shortages and climate-related challenges, calling for increased resource mobilisation and stronger coordination of humanitarian assistance across affected countries.
The regional leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working together to combat terrorism and restore peace and stability across West Africa, stressing that collective action remains essential to tackling the region's growing security threats.
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