Nigeria's Foreign Minister Urges Stronger AU Security Framework

At the opening of the Consultative Forum on Strengthening the Functional Performance of the African Union Peace and Security Architecture in Abuja, Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, expressed concerns over the escalating security situation in Africa, particularly the spread of terrorism from the Sahel to coastal West Africa and other regions. She noted that terrorist groups are increasingly utilizing drones and illicit networks to enhance their operations.

While acknowledging the achievements of Africa's peace and security architecture, Odumegwu-Ojukwu pointed out ongoing implementation gaps that hinder effectiveness. She identified mediation, preventive diplomacy, early warning, and counter-terrorism as priority areas for the forum.

The Minister advocated for timely intelligence sharing among African nations and proposed a mediation coordination mechanism to clarify roles among the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, and the United Nations. She also emphasized addressing the root causes of violent extremism and warned against over-reliance on foreign security partners.