ECOWAS Defence Chiefs to Explore All Diplomatic Means

The Ecowas Chiefs of Defence Staff have resolved to explore and exhaust all diplomatic means before taking any further actions on Niger Republic if the need arises.

The Chairman ECOWAS Chiefs of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa disclosed this at the end of the extraordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of the Chief of Defence Staff, held in Nigeria's Capital, Abuja.

General Christopher Musa who spoke on behalf of the delegates from member nations at the end of deliberations at the Defence Headquarters Abuja, said all decitions taken by the Defence Chiefs are to be forwarded for considerations by the ECOWAS Heads of Government.

The Nigerian Defence Chief therefore called on member nations to strenghten regional security architecture, intellegence sharing as well as intensify diplomatic actions with stakeholders.

He pointed out that the "discussions have yielded valuable insights and actionable recommendations. We have acknowledged the need for a comprehensive approach that encompasses political, security, and diplomatic dimensions. It is imperative that we translate our deliberations into concrete actions that can effectively address the crisis and prevent a recurrence in the future".

The Chairman Ecowas Chiefs of Defence Staff General Musa said the importance of upholding democratic principles and the rule of law must be emphasized and the coup in the Niger Republic represents a blatant disregard for fundamental principles that underpin regional integration and stability which must be unequivocally condemn with unwavering commitment to democracy.

" We must strengthen our regional security architecture and enhance our collective response to security challenges. The coup in the Niger Republic has highlighted the fragility of our region and the need for a robust and proactive security framework. We must enhance intelligence sharing, joint training exercises, and capacity-building initiatives among our defense and security forces to effectively combat threats to our collective security and enhance interoperability"

"we must intensify our diplomatic efforts to engage with all relevant stakeholders. Dialogue and negotiation should be at the forefront of our approach in resolving the crisis in Republic of Niger. We must engage with the transitional authorities, civil society organizations, and other key actors to foster an inclusive and peaceful transition process".

He therefore called upon each member state to take ownership of the agreed-upon measures and work diligently to implement them towards finding solutions to the situation in the Republic of Niger.

The Nigerian Minister of Defence, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Ibrahim Kana, echoed the words of the Chief of Defence. Dr. Kana said while Ecowas explores diplomatic means, it must be known that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are ready to take necessary actions at the command of the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces.

The Commissioner for Political Affairs and Regional Security, Dr. Abdel Fatah Musah said Ecowas is guided by its protocols part of which is zero tolerance to illegal taking of power while emphasizing that Ecowas is giving diplomacy a chance to work.