Nigeria has stressed the urgent need to transform the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF) into a fully operational mechanism to promote peace and stability across West Africa.
Speaking at a Governmental Experts’ Validation Meeting on the ESF Training Policy for Peace Support Operations in Abuja on Wednesday, Maj-Gen. Umar Abubakar, Director of Peacekeeping and Regional Security at the Ministry of Defence, described the initiative as a key moment for the region.
“This is a pivotal moment for ECOWAS. The policy we are validating today will transform our Standby Force from concept to reality,” he said.
Abubakar noted that the policy would enhance the force’s ability to respond quickly to conflicts and also serve as a regional component of the African Standby Force. He called for collaborative efforts in finalising a policy that mirrors regional challenges and aspirations for lasting peace.
Dr. Sani Adamu, Acting Head of the ECOWAS Peace Support Operations Division, in his keynote, emphasised that the document goes beyond training. He said it is a framework that incorporates human rights, gender inclusion, civilian protection, and post-conflict recovery.
“This policy is not just a guide but a comprehensive framework designed to enhance the skills, coordination, and readiness of the standby force,” Adamu stated.
He added that peace and security should be built not only through military preparedness but also by leveraging collective strengths to foster long-term stability.
Also present was Mrs. Yvonne Akpasom, representing the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) under the ECOWAS Peace, Security and Governance Project. She reaffirmed GIZ’s commitment to supporting ECOWAS in crafting a training policy that is practical, inclusive, and meets international standards.
The meeting brought together experts and strategic partners to validate the ESF training policy, marking a critical step in enhancing the operational effectiveness of the regional peacekeeping force.
