ECOWAS to Leverage AI for Enhanced Security and Counter-Terrorism in West Africa

March 11, 2025

3 minutes read

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is set to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies into its security framework to strengthen counter-terrorism and peace operations across the region. This initiative aims to tackle the persistent security challenges in West Africa, including insurgency, terrorism, and climate-related threats.

The conversation around ECOWAS AI security gained momentum at a recent validation meeting of government experts in Abuja, where officials deliberated on enhancing logistics for Peace Support Operations (PSO) ahead of the commissioning of the ECOWAS Logistics Depot in Lungi, Sierra Leone later this year.

ECOWAS AI Security: A Game Changer for Regional Stability

At the core of this initiative is a proposal to incorporate AI, drones, and other smart technologies into the operations of the ECOWAS Standby Force. These advancements are expected to boost intelligence gathering, improve response times, and optimize military logistics in tackling security threats.

Air Commodore Sampson Eyekosi, a Nigerian Air Force officer and chairman of the validation meeting, highlighted the importance of adopting AI-driven solutions.

“We want to leverage technology and fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other threats we see, even climate change,” he stated, emphasizing the need for an advanced approach to regional security.

This ECOWAS AI security strategy will be presented to the Heads of State and Government for ratification in March. If approved, it could redefine how peace and security operations are conducted in the region.

Strengthening ECOWAS Standby Force with AI and Localized Logistics

Beyond AI integration, the discussions also focused on reducing reliance on foreign military equipment. ECOWAS aims to source military hardware locally, ensuring that the Standby Force is well-equipped without excessive dependence on external suppliers.

Eyekosi stressed the significance of this self-reliance, stating:

“Peace and security is first our responsibility. We must take ownership. We must take charge.”

Funding remains a crucial factor in the success of this initiative. ECOWAS is exploring diverse financial avenues, including contributions from member states and private sector partnerships, to sustain its security efforts effectively.

SEE ALSO: ECOWAS; AfDB Sign $12M REWARD Project to Strengthen West Africa’s Rice Sector

ECOWAS AI Security Initiative Aligns with Global Military Trends

The Nigerian Navy has already begun incorporating AI and emerging technologies into its operations. Last year, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla announced plans to leverage AI for enhanced naval activities, improving efficiency and decision-making at sea.

This move aligns with global trends where military forces increasingly adopt AI to automate intelligence gathering, optimize logistics, and strengthen surveillance capabilities. By adopting AI-driven security measures, ECOWAS could revolutionize regional security operations and ensure a more robust defense system against evolving threats.

The Road Ahead: A Collective Effort for AI-Driven Security

The success of the ECOWAS AI security initiative will depend on collaboration among governments, security agencies, private sector players, and civil society groups. Air Commodore Eyekosi emphasized a “whole-of-society approach”, calling for media engagement and public awareness to strengthen support for these security advancements.

As the ECOWAS Logistics Depot nears completion and AI integration moves closer to implementation, the region stands at a defining moment. If executed effectively, this initiative could usher in a new era of security, resilience, and stability for West Africa.

“We need to work together, and this is what we are doing,” Eyekosi concluded, reinforcing the commitment to a tech-driven security transformation.

With AI, West Africa’s fight against terrorism and insurgency could become smarter, faster, and more effective than ever before.

Share:
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

Related Links

Dangote Refinery Petrol Price Drop Sparks Hope for Cheaper Fuel Nationwide

Nigerians may soon enjoy relief at fuel stations as the Dangote refinery petrol price drop ...

Former Boko Haram Members De-radicalised

Yobe State to Reintegrate 390 Ex-Boko Haram Members After De-Radicalisation Programme

The Yobe State Government has announced its readiness to reintegrate 390 former Boko Haram members ...

Muhammed Salah signs new contract

Mohamed Salah Extends Stay at Anfield

Mohamed Salah has signed a new long-term contract with Liverpool FC, extending his stay at ...

Bauchi State

Man Arrested for Sexual Assault of Minor Daughter in Bauchi

Police detain father accused of impregnating 17-year-old biological daughter. The Bauchi State Police Command has ...

Features

What Really Moves Bitcoin’s Price? A Comprehensive Guide to the Key Drivers of Volatility and Value

What Really Moves Bitcoin’s Price? A Comprehensive Guide to the Key Drivers of Volatility and Value

​Bitcoin, the pioneering cryptocurrency, has captivated the financial world with its innovative technology and notable ...

Guinea Sets September 2025 Date for Constitutional Referendum as Military Inches Toward Democratic Transition

Guinea Sets September 2025 Date for Constitutional Referendum as Military Inches Toward Democratic Transition

Guinea’s military-led government has officially announced that a national referendum on a new constitution will ...

Ivory Coast economic growth

Côte d’Ivoire’s Economic Boom Faces Political Test in 2025 Election

Ivory Coast’s Economic Success: A Model for West Africa Côte d’Ivoire has emerged as one ...

Phillis Wheatley

Phillis Wheatley: The Trailblazing African American Poet Who Defied Oppression

Phillis Wheatley: A Pioneer in Black Literature and Poetry Phillis Wheatley was a groundbreaking poet ...

Women Participation in Politics

International Women’s Day 2025: Advancing Rights, Equality, and Leadership for African Women

The 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) theme, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” ...

Bromate

Bromate Use in Bread: The Hidden Health Risks

Potassium bromate, a banned additive in bread production, poses serious health risks, including cancer. Learn ...
Wema Bank

Wema Bank targets fraudulent activities as it suspends seven fintech partners

Tackling Fraud in Nigeria’s Fintech Sector: Wema Bank’s Bold Steps Nigeria’s financial technology (fintech) sector ...

The Rise of West African Startups: A Tech Revolution

The rise of West African startups is transforming the region’s tech ecosystem, with fintech and ...

Latest News

Today in History

April 24th is the day in 1907 that Hersheypark, founded by Milton S. Hershey for the exclusive use of his employees, is opened.

Exchange Rate Per Dollar

AM Armenian Dram389.2814
GH Ghana Cedi15.3382
GM Gambian Dalasi71.5
GN Guinea Franc8,653.17
NG Nigerian Naira₦1,610.77
CF CFA Franc BEAC576.5106
24 Apr · CurrencyRate · USD
CurrencyRate.Today
Check: 24 Apr 2025 19:05 UTC
Latest change: 24 Apr 2025 19:00 UTC
API: CurrencyRate
Disclaimers. This plugin or website cannot guarantee the accuracy of the exchange rates displayed. You should confirm current rates before making any transactions that could be affected by changes in the exchange rates.
You can install this WP plugin on your website from the WordPress official website: Exchange Rates🚀

YOUR THOUGHTS

Let us know what you think

Contact the People’s Paper with feedback on stories and how we could make wapress.africa even better!

newsletter image

Stay up to date with the latest from West Africa Press

Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on WApress.

Subscribe Newsletter!

Be the first to receive our latest contents and more...

Need help?