The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle has reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to regional security cooperation, the principles of collective defence and operational solidarity within the ECOWAS subregion.
Matawalle stated this at the dinner event of the 43rd Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff (CCDS) held at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess, Abuja Nigeria's Capital.
The meeting according to a statement by the Personal Assistant (Media), Office of the Minister of State for Defence, Ahmad Dan-Wudil was hosted by the Chief of Defence Staff, Armed Forces of Nigeria, General Christopher Musa who is also the Chairman, ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff.
The Minister highlighted the multidimensional threats confronting the region, including terrorism, violent extremism, maritime insecurity, and transnational organized crime. He emphasized that the prevailing and emerging security threats necessitate a comprehensive and coordinated regional response.
“Our region stands at a critical crossroads. No single nation can afford to confront these threats in isolation. We must continue to forge a unified front—through timely intelligence sharing, harmonized operational strategies, and enhanced force capabilities—to neutralize threats and uphold regional peace and stability.”
Matawalle reiterated Nigeria’s full support for the operationalization of ECOWAS security frameworks and regional standby mechanisms, and urged all Chiefs of Defence Staff to strengthen interoperability, professionalism, and cohesive force posture.
“As defence partners, we bear the collective responsibility—and possess the shared capability—to build a stronger, safer, and more secure West Africa.”
The event marked a reaffirmation of regional defence solidarity and the strategic importance of sustained collaboration among ECOWAS Armed Forces.
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