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Security: ECOWAS Deliberates on Training Policy for Standby Force
Security: ECOWAS Deliberates on Training Policy for Standby Force
By: Michael Mike
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has began the final move to put a standby force in place to combat insecurity in West Africa with the commencement of deliberations on the training policy to be adopted for the force.
At the meeting in Abuja were security experts and technocrats from 12 ECOWAS member states.
The ECOWAS standby force which was activated to address the rising insecurity in the sub-region is yet to be fully active, though it has already established a depot for deployment of soldiers for peace support operations.
The regional force, which is expected to comprise 5,000 troops, is part of a broader regional security strategy to also curb terrorism and cross-border crimes.
Speaking at the opening of the government experts’ validation meeting on the ECOWAS standby force training policy for peace support operations, the Acting Director of Peacekeeping and Regional Security, Dr. Sani Adamu said the rapidly changing nature of threats and conflicts has necessitated dynamic and adaptive approach to training.
He said the training policy aims to emphasise not only the combat readiness but also conflict prevention, civilian protection, human rights observance, and post-conflict rehabilitation.
He added that: “Today, as we focus our attention on the development implementation of the ECOWAS Standby force training policy, we recognize the significance of this initiative in addressing the complex, dynamic challenges of Peacekeeping in West Africa.
“This policy is not only a guide but a comprehensive framework designed to enhance the skills, coordination, and readiness of our standby force, ensuring they are trained adequately to manage and resolve conflicts.”
He stressed that: “ As we refine the operational readiness and effectiveness of the EST, we must recognise that true security is not only about arms and strategy, but it is also about leveraging our collective strengths and resources to foster a sustainable peace and security.”
On the draft validation, he appealed to the experts to “actively participate, share your perspectives, and help refine this policy to ensure that it meets the high standards we envisioned. Our commitment today will pave the way for actionable strategies and tangible outcomes in the field.”
By effecting ECOWAS standby force, therefore, we continue to support not just immediate crisis response, but also long-term peace-building initiatives, creating the conditions necessary for economic development and social progress across our region.
“This is an investment in our future, a future where the next generation can continue to grow up in a world free from fear of conflict.”
In his remarks, Coordinator, Peace Support Operations, Nigeria’s Ministry of Defence, Major General Umar Abubakar, said that the session was designed to bring about experts to discuss the training policy, which will set the stage for the activation of ECOWAS’ standby force by member states.
He said: “The main aim of this training policy was to ensure a consistent and effective training of the troops that will form up the ECOWAS’ standby force.
“This training comprises both education training, individual training and collective training and military exercise.”
He noted that at the end of the two-day draft session, the meeting is expected to validate the training policy draft for peace support operations in the region.
Abubakar said: “Essentially, at the end of this meeting, we are expected to validate the draft training policy, which, like I said earlier, will set the stage for the activation and operationalisation of the ECOWAS’ standby force.”
Representative of Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), a German development agency, Mrs. Yvonne Akpasom, stressed the importance of a well crafted training policy for ECOWAS peacekeeping personnel.
Akpasom said: “A well-crafted training policy is essential because it ensures that ECOWAS’ personnel are adequately prepared to respond effectively to the conflict, security, and challenges that affect the region. It provides a clear framework for training, peace, programme design, delivery, and continuous personnel development, which are all crucial for operational readiness and rapid deployment of the standby policy on the ground.”
She stressed that the ECOWAS’ Peace, Security and Governance Project funded by the German agency for development, GIZ primarily focuses on five key areas, including conflict prevention and crisis management, strengthening a secure, democratic, and human rights-based environment within the context of security sectors reform and governance, electoral support and democratic transition, women, youth, peace, and security, and strengthening ECOWAS’ training infrastructure.
End
Zulum pours encomium on his Mentor at 59
By: Bodunrin Kayode
Borno State Governor Professor Babagana Zulum has congratulated the Vice President Kashim Shettima on his attainment of 59.
In a nicely worded eulogy written by himself, the Governor described Shettima as his mentor who has given him the guidance as he continues to make life comfortable for his people in Borno state.
He commended him for his rare gift of mentorship which he maintains is the hallmark of a forthright leader who means well not only for his people in the north east but the entire Nigeria.
The Governor went on: “On behalf of myself, the Government, and the people of Borno State, I extend heartfelt birthday felicitations to His Excellency Vice President Kashim Shettima as he celebrates his 59th birthday.
“Mr Vice President, sir, your mentorship has shaped countless leaders across Borno, the Northeast, and beyond. Your leadership traits, vision, integrity, and commitment to service have guided us through challenges and inspired our generation to strive for excellence.
“Your humility remains a hallmark of truly great stewardship, reminding us that true leadership serves the people with grace and patience. Your intellectual prowess has consistently informed sound policy, strategic decisions, and thoughtful dialogue that elevates our national discourse.
“Your Excellency, I, the people of Borno, and indeed Nigeria, are immensely proud of the trajectory of your public service. From your formative years in public life as a Commissioner, to your tenure as Governor and later doubling as Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum, to your time as a Senator, and now in your capacity as Vice President, you have demonstrated a steadfast dedication to the advancement and unity of our country.
“May this birthday be a reflection of the lives you have touched and the enduring impact you continue to have. Wishing you sound health, continued wisdom, and many more years of service and national progress. Once again, Happy Birthday! Your Excellency!”
Zulum pours encomium on his Mentor at 59
Air power delivers decisive blow against terrorists in Sambisa, nutrialised 15
By: Zagazola Makama
The air component of Operation Hadin Kai has neutralised more than 15 terrorists and destroyed their structures in a precision air interdiction mission at Zuwa, a new hideout in the Sambisa general area of Borno State.
Zagazola Makama gathered that the operation, carried out on Sept. 3 at about 11:50 a.m., followed credible intelligence which tracked terrorists fleeing after sustained ground operations in the Bitta axis in July.
According to competent sources, ISR missions conducted by Grey Raptor platforms established the withdrawal route of the terrorists along a river line extending from Bitta towards Zuwa.
The sources said “Overhead the West of Zuwa, our crew observed active terrorist structures with several fighters wearing ISWAP uniforms. It was evident the location had become a major concentration point.
“Consequently, the air component executed multiple attack passes with precision-guided stores against the identified structures, which were occupied by a large concentration of terrorists,” the sources said.
The sources explained that the strikes achieved their desired effect, as over 15 terrorists were neutralised and the structures destroyed completely.
The sources added that the operation was a direct follow-on to the July 28 encounter with ground troops in Bitta, where several terrorists were dislodged.
The sources reiterated the commitment of the troops of Operation HADIN KAI and its Air Component to sustain close air support, reconnaissance, and precision strike operations in synergy with surface forces until terrorism is completely defeated in the North East.
Recalled that Nigerian military, through Operation Hadin Kai, has intensified its coordinated operations across the North East, targeting remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents still hiding in the Sambisa and Mandara mountains.
Air power delivers decisive blow against terrorists in Sambisa, nutrialised 15
Zulum leads N/East govs to Tinubu, requests completion of 17 roads, oil exploration
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, led a delegation of North East governors to meet with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday.
The meeting, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, focused on critical issues affecting the North East, including urgent completion of 17 vital road projects and the resumption of oil exploration in the frontier wells, particularly the Kolmani and Lake Chad wells.
Other governors in attendance included Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, Bala Muhammad of Bauchi, Mai Mala Buni of Yobe, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa and Agbu Keffas of Taraba.
Delivering his address during the meeting, Zulum, who is also the chairman of the North East Governors Forum, urged the president to complete the ongoing road projects and build critical roads connecting the six states of the zone.
The roads are Kano-Maiduguri Road, Port Harcourt-Jos-Bauchi-Maiduguri Railway line, Bama-Mubi-Yola Road, Wukari-Jalingo-Yola Road, Duguri-Mansur Road (NNPC Project Ongoing), Bauchi-Gombe-Biu-Damaturu Road, Damaturu-Geidam Road, Bauchi-Ningi-Nasaru-Babaldo Road and Gombe-Potiskum, Damaturu-Biu Roads.
Others include Alkaleri-Futuk Road, Maiduguri-Damboa-Yola Road, Gombe-Dukku-Darazo Road, Biu-Gombe Road, Ibi-Shamdam Road, Maiduguri-Monguno-Baga Road and Maiduguri-Ngala-Bama-Banki Roads
Governor Zulum commended the president for the commitment to restoring peace within the northeast, stating, “We thank you for fostering peace and stability within the sub-region and continuing with the initiative of your predecessor in sustaining the fight against insurgency.
He assured the president of their commitment to his administration’s initiative on training of manpower and providing technology with a view to reversing the insecurity facing the North East.
“We are fully aligning with Mr. President’s good initiative of training of manpower and providing technology with a view to reversing the ugly trend in the forest, thereby reducing the insurgency and promoting agricultural development in alignment with the renewed hope agenda on food security,” Zulum said.
He added, “Mr President, the North East governors hold you in high esteem and all of us have resolved to partner with you in your determination to provide good governance for Nigeria with a view to leaving behind lasting legacies and landmarks for the country.”
Responding, President Tinubu acknowledged the governors’ concerns and assured them of his administration’s commitment to addressing the developmental needs of the northeast.
Zulum leads N/East govs to Tinubu, requests completion of 17 roads, oil exploration
Zulum pours encomium on his Mentor at 59
Air power delivers decisive blow against terrorists in Sambisa, nutrialised 15
Zulum leads N/East govs to Tinubu, requests completion of 17 roads, oil exploration
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