Nigeria’s Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has raised alarms over the potential security fallout from the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Speaking at a review meeting with Field Commanders in Abuja, Abubakar warned that the exit of these nations, along with Chad’s planned departure from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), could severely undermine regional security efforts.
A Blow to Regional Security Frameworks
The departure of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS, which became official on January 29, 2025, has disrupted long-standing regional security collaborations. These nations, now part of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), have accused ECOWAS of being overly influenced by France and have shifted their alliances toward Russia, Turkey, and Iran.
Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized that this fracture in West Africa’s political and security landscape could weaken the region’s ability to combat terrorism effectively. He also expressed concern over Chad’s planned exit from the MNJTF, a coalition critical to counterterrorism operations in the Lake Chad Basin.
Terrorist Groups’ Evolving Tactics
Abubakar highlighted the growing sophistication of terrorist groups, particularly their use of drones modified to carry locally fabricated grenades in kamikaze-style attacks. He referenced an incident in Damboa last year as evidence of their increasing capability to integrate drone warfare into their operations.
“The evolving tactics of these groups pose a significant threat to our military personnel and critical air assets,” he said. To counter this, Abubakar stressed the urgent need to deploy a comprehensive Counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (C-UAV) system.
ECOWAS’s Response
Despite the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, ECOWAS has urged its member states to continue recognizing the national passports of the three nations bearing the ECOWAS logo “in the spirit of regional solidarity” until further notice. However, the bloc’s unity and effectiveness have been called into question as the Sahel states pivot toward new alliances.
The exit of these nations has deepened divisions within ECOWAS, casting uncertainty over the future of regional cooperation. The establishment of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) further complicates the geopolitical landscape, raising concerns about the broader implications for stability in West Africa.
What’s Next for Regional Security?
The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS, coupled with Chad’s potential exit from the MNJTF, poses significant challenges for counterterrorism efforts in the region. Air Marshal Abubakar’s warnings underscore the need for innovative strategies and enhanced collaboration to address the evolving threats posed by terrorist groups.
As West Africa grapples with these shifts, the international community will be closely watching to see how ECOWAS and its remaining member states adapt to the changing dynamics.
Key Takeaways
Nigeria’s Air Chief, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has warned of security risks following the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS.
Chad’s planned exit from the MNJTF could further weaken regional counterterrorism efforts.
Terrorist groups are increasingly using drones in attacks, necessitating the deployment of C-UAV systems.
ECOWAS has urged member states to continue recognizing the passports of the exiting nations.
The establishment of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) has deepened regional divisions.
