Terrorism’s Expanding Shadow: ECOWAS Raises Alarm As Violence Spreads Across West Africa
The growing reach of terrorism in West Africa is no longer confined to the Sahel.
It is now casting a shadow over the entire region, prompting urgent calls for deeper cooperation and reliable international support.
The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Alieu Touray, issued the warning during a United Nations Security Council session in New York, where regional security and counter-terrorism efforts took centre stage.
He revealed that early-warning systems recorded 450 attacks and more than 1,900 deaths in 2025, underscoring the severity of the threat.
Dr Touray noted that extremist groups are not only targeting communities with violence but also unleashing “economic warfare”, blocking fuel supplies and crippling trade routes vital for regional stability.
According to him, in response, ECOWAS is fast-tracking the deployment of its standby force.
The mission will begin with 1,650 personnel, with plans to scale up to 5,000 troops through support from member states and international partners.
However, he cautioned that fragmented national efforts and deepening mistrust continue to undermine regional security operations.
He urged the Security Council to help rebuild confidence, ensure predictable financing, and strengthen coordinated action to halt the spread of terrorism.
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