ECOWAS Calls for Global Support Against Rising Terrorism Threat

The President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, Dr. Omar Touray, has issued a strong appeal for international support to combat the escalating threat of terrorism in West Africa and the Sahel region. During a briefing to the United Nations Security Council in Sierra Leone, Touray emphasized that the persistent security challenges posed by terrorism have evolved into an existential threat for the region.

The briefing, which took place at the invitation of President Julius Maada Bio, who currently chairs both ECOWAS and the UN Security Council, highlighted alarming statistics. According to data from ECOWAS, approximately 450 terrorist incidents were recorded between January and November 2025, resulting in over 1,900 fatalities. The central Sahel accounted for nearly 80% of these attacks, underscoring the widespread nature of the threat that now affects every country in West Africa.

Escalating Violence and Economic Disruption

Touray noted that terrorism has expanded from being concentrated in certain areas, such as the Sahel and the Lake Chad Basin, to a significant regional concern capable of destabilizing the entire West African landscape. He pointed out that terrorist groups are now employing new tactics, including economic sabotage, by disrupting essential supplies like fuel. This has led to severe economic hardship, stifling trade and mobility across borders.

“This is no longer just a security problem,” Touray stated. “It is an existential threat touching every facet of life—trade, mobility, livelihoods, and the basic stability of states.” The implications of this crisis are profound, as the region grapples with both violence and deepening political mistrust.

In response to the growing crisis, ECOWAS is moving to expedite the activation of its Standby Force, which has been in planning for several years. Defence and finance ministers convened in August to finalize the structure and funding model for this force, which is expected to initially comprise 1,650 personnel, with plans to expand to 5,000 as resources allow. This initiative is part of a broader counter-terrorism strategy that combines military action with governance reforms and community engagement.

Call for Trust and Cooperation

During the UN Security Council meeting, Touray emphasized the urgent need for a unified approach to countering terrorism. He noted that the most significant barrier to effective action is not a lack of funding or military capability, but rather a growing mistrust among regional governments. “No amount of money or equipment will defeat terrorism if we cannot trust one another,” he cautioned.

This mistrust has hampered intelligence-sharing and joint operations, undermining efforts to create a cohesive front against extremist groups. Despite the challenges, ECOWAS reported progress in dialogue with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Both parties agreed to maintain existing arrangements related to trade and movement until new agreements are established.

In his remarks, UN Secretary-General António Guterres echoed these concerns, describing the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in the Sahel. He called for a coherent regional and international response to combat the rising tide of terrorism and violent extremism.

Touray concluded with a direct appeal to the Security Council and global partners, stressing that defeating terrorism requires “trust, coordination, and sustained support.” He underlined that military solutions alone cannot resolve the crisis. “Our region is determined to fight. But we cannot—and should not—fight alone,” he asserted, urging collective action to safeguard the future of West Africa.

The situation in the region remains critical, with ECOWAS and its partners working to address the underlying socio-economic issues that fuel extremism, while simultaneously enhancing their security frameworks to combat this growing threat.