Chiefs of Defense Staff from various countries within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are scheduled to convene in Accra on August 17, 2023.
The purpose of this meeting is to formulate a strategic approach for a potential military intervention in Niger.
This decision comes in response to a recent coup in Niger, prompting ECOWAS leaders to activate a standby military force for potential intervention.
During the meeting, the Military Chiefs will collaborate to develop a comprehensive plan of action for a potential intervention in Niger, pending approval from ECOWAS leaders.
General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defense Staff for the Federal Republic of Nigeria, stated that the military leaders are committed to doing what is necessary to address the situation in Niger.
This gathering highlights the regional collaboration and coordinated efforts among ECOWAS member countries to address crises and restore stability within the region.
The President of ECOWAS, Omar Alieu Touray, emphasized the importance of confronting unconstitutional changes of government head-on and shared the necessity of drawing upon the collective wisdom and experiences of member states.
He expressed that the decisions made in response to the situation in Niger will convey a strong message of the region’s dedication to democracy, opposition to unconstitutional shifts in power, and commitment to maintaining regional stability.
In response to the recent coup in Niger, ECOWAS has taken a firm stance by activating its standby force with the goal of restoring constitutional order in the country.
This decision was announced by President Omar Alieu Touray during an ECOWAS Extraordinary meeting in Abuja on August 10, 2023.
He also called upon the African Union, partner countries, and relevant institutions to lend their support to the resolution made by ECOWAS, highlighting the regional and continental collaboration to address the situation in Niger and uphold democratic principles.
President Omar Alieu Touray highlighted that ECOWAS has been actively seeking a peaceful resolution through dialogue with the military junta in Niger.
However, these efforts have been met with defiance from the coup leaders. The junta’s rejection of dialogue is particularly concerning in the face of the continued detention of President Mohamed Bazoum and his family members, which further compounds the crisis.
This situation underscores the urgency and seriousness with which ECOWAS is approaching the need to restore constitutional order and stability in Niger.