ECOWAS to Activate Counter-Terrorism Brigade with $1 Billion Funding - Regional Security Boost

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) plans to activate a counter-terrorism brigade to combat the rising security threats in the region. President of ECOWAS, Omar Touray, announced the initiative at the 2025 African Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit in Abuja.

The brigade will receive annual funding of $1 billion to provide logistical and financial support to frontline states battling terrorism. With the Sahel region becoming a global terrorism epicenter, accounting for a significant percentage of related deaths, the activation of this rapid deployment force is crucial for a coordinated response to the growing security challenges.

The move underscores ECOWAS's commitment to enhancing regional security and addressing the escalating threats of terrorism and insurgency.