ECOWAS Security Crisis Deepens: Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso’s Withdrawal Weakens Counter-Insurgency Operations – Nigerian Air Chief

 The Nigerian Air Chief has sounded the alarm over the deteriorating security situation in West Africa, attributing the recent surge in terrorist activities to the withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This unexpected geopolitical shift, which saw the three Sahelian nations break ties with the regional bloc, has significantly weakened collective efforts in combating insurgency and organized crime in the region.

For years, ECOWAS had played a crucial role in fostering military cooperation among West African nations, particularly in the fight against groups such as Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and Al-Qaeda-affiliated militants. However, with the departure of these three countries, counter-insurgency strategies have suffered a major blow, as intelligence-sharing, cross-border operations, and joint military interventions have been severely disrupted.

The Nigerian Air Chief warned that without coordinated military actions, terrorist factions would exploit the security vacuum to establish new strongholds, launch more attacks, and expand their influence across the region. This development could also lead to an increase in arms smuggling, human trafficking, and other illicit activities that threaten not just Nigeria’s security but that of the entire West African sub-region.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are underway to salvage security partnerships, as ECOWAS leaders are exploring alternative approaches to maintaining regional stability. Nigeria, which has been at the forefront of counter-terrorism efforts, is reportedly in discussions with neighboring countries to form new bilateral and multilateral security agreements that will ensure continuity in anti-insurgency operations.

Security analysts have urged the Nigerian government and ECOWAS leadership to take urgent action in filling the void left by the withdrawal of these nations. There are also growing calls for a reassessment of ECOWAS policies to prevent further fragmentation of the bloc, which could have long-term consequences for regional peace and economic stability.

As West Africa grapples with these uncertainties, the international community is being urged to provide support in intelligence-sharing, military training, and funding to counter the growing threats of terrorism and insurgency.