The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, has called on Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali to rethink their decision to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) ahead of the January 29 exit deadline.
Speaking at the 5th Lake Chad Governors’ Forum in Maiduguri, Musa stressed the need for regional unity, warning that political divisions could undermine efforts to combat terrorism, insurgency, and climate change. He emphasized that cooperation among African nations is crucial to addressing these shared threats.
Highlighting the instability in the Lake Chad Basin, Musa underscored the critical role of the Multinational Joint Task Force in tackling cross-border security challenges. He urged continued support for the task force’s operations, emphasizing that collective action is essential to restoring peace and stability.
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“Challenges will always arise, but together, we shall prevail. The resilience of the Lake Chad Basin people is remarkable, and through unity, we will achieve lasting peace and prosperity,” he stated.
Musa reaffirmed the commitment to rebuilding and stabilizing the region, stressing that political disputes should not derail progress. He acknowledged the sacrifices of security forces and urged national governments and international partners to step up support for stabilization efforts.
Advocating for a comprehensive approach, Musa called for a mix of military and diplomatic strategies to ensure sustainable peace. He expressed confidence in the region’s ability to overcome its challenges, provided there is a united front against insecurity.
The week-long forum, attended by regional leaders and stakeholders, focuses on security, the return of displaced persons, and long-term stabilization strategies. As discussions continue, the spotlight remains on the impact of Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali’s exit from ECOWAS and the urgent need for collaboration in securing the future of the Lake Chad Basin.
