President Bola Tinubu, who also serves as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States Authority of Heads of State and Government, has emphasized the necessity for member states to fulfill their financial obligations to the regional body.
Speaking at the 65th Ordinary Session of ECOWAS, Tinubu underscored that substantial financial resources are crucial to operationalize the ECOWAS Standby Force and effectively combat terrorism, banditry, and violent extremism.
Tinubu’s remarks come as his one-year tenure as chairman is set to conclude. He highlighted that meeting financial commitments would enable ECOWAS to address the recommendations of its ministers of defense and finance, ultimately helping to stabilize the region and counter insecurity. Tinubu stated, “Let me underscore that a peaceful and secure society is essential for achieving our potentials, move to operationalize the ECOWAS Standby Force, ESF, in combating terrorism. I must emphasize that the success of this plan requires, not only strong political will but also substantial financial resources.”
He called on member states to leverage the capabilities of the Nigeria National Counter Terrorism Center, recognized as one of the best on the continent. The Nigerian government has designated the NCTC as a regional center, allowing all ECOWAS member states to benefit from its capacity-building and other related opportunities. Tinubu invited fellow heads of state to visit the center and assess its facilities and capabilities, saying, “Your excellencies, dear heads of state, I urge those of you with time to visit the center before your departure and assess first-hand the facilities and the capabilities of NCTC.”
In addition to security concerns, Tinubu also addressed the economic challenges facing the region. He stressed the importance of partnerships, investment, and infrastructure development to unlock the region’s economic potential and promote prosperity. Tinubu urged member states to comply with the protocol on community levies to ensure adequate resources for ECOWAS’s programs, affirming Nigeria’s commitment to not default on its financial commitments. He remarked, “I’m also fully aware of other challenges confronting our region, especially the economic hurdles that hinder our progress to elevate our people from poverty to prosperity. It is imperative that we unite as a community and develop innovative approaches to unleash our vast economic potentials.”
As Tinubu’s tenure draws to a close, his calls for financial and strategic commitment from ECOWAS member states underscore the pressing need for regional cooperation in addressing both security and economic challenges.