By Odita Sunday
Christopher Musa
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has called for a united security alliance between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), warning that only coordinated regional action can defeat terrorism, dismantle cross-border criminal networks and restore lasting stability across West Africa.
General Musa made the call on Tuesday upon his arrival in Cotonou, Benin Republic, for a three-day working visit aimed at harmonising regional defence strategies and strengthening cooperation against insurgency and maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea. He was received at the Cotonou International Airport by Benin’s Minister of National Defence, Mr. Gildas Agonkan.
Addressing defence officials, the minister stressed that West Africa’s evolving security challenges require an inclusive and coordinated regional response. He urged the leadership of ECOWAS and the AES to find common ground in securing land borders against insurgent infiltration while bolstering maritime security across the Gulf of Guinea.
According to him, greater collaboration among neighbouring countries remains critical to addressing the growing threat posed by terrorist groups and transnational criminal networks operating across the region.
In his remarks, Benin’s Minister of National Defence, Mr. Agonkan, commended Nigeria for its leading role in promoting peace and stability in West Africa. He praised the country’s swift interventions in defence of democratic governance and described Nigeria as an indispensable partner in the fight against transnational crime.
He also lauded the outstanding performance of the Nigerian Army contingent that participated in Benin’s National Day parade on August 1, describing the display as a reflection of Nigeria’s military professionalism.
As part of the official visit, General Musa met with Nigerian troops stationed at Togbin, where he reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR’s commitment to improving troop welfare, enhancing operational effectiveness and strengthening the capacity of the Armed Forces.
The minister also visited the Nigeria House, where he was hosted by Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Mrs. Mopelola Ibrahim. During the meeting, the ambassador reaffirmed that Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement with Benin is anchored on expanding bilateral trade and strengthening joint border surveillance to improve regional security.
The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence.
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