Twelve member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have agreed in principle to establish a new regional military force aimed at tackling jihadist violence across West Africa.
According to sources who spoke to AFP, the decision was reached by military leaders during talks held in Freetown over the weekend. The discussions addressed growing concerns about extremist attacks, the spread of cross-border organised crime, and ongoing maritime security challenges.
The proposed force is expected to comprise approximately 2,000 troops tasked with confronting “terrorism and insecurity” throughout the region. Rather than being permanently deployed abroad, the soldiers would remain based in their respective countries, while Sierra Leone would function as the logistical hub.
Key issues, including funding arrangements and operational details, are still under negotiation. ECOWAS has yet to release an official statement confirming the initiative.
The move comes as the Sahel region continues to grapple with insurgencies linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. Militants have been especially active in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger — three former French colonies that withdrew from ECOWAS after military coups in recent years.
Although the three countries have since formed their own alliance, a senior West African military official indicated they would be urged to collaborate with the new regional force. He stressed that their involvement is essential, describing their territories as the epicentre of the fight against jihadist groups.