The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to partner with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger despite their withdrawal from ECOWAS.
Gen. Musa made this known on Thursday in Abuja during a meeting with a delegation from the Sahelian Think Tank, known as Alliance De Sahel, comprising representatives from the three countries.
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He highlighted the importance of unity among the countries, saying their presence in Nigeria from the Sahelian countries shows that Nigeria and the sahel countries are still united, despite challenges, he craved for the extension of the hand of fellowship to all Africans countries for unity.
Musa emphasized that terrorism poses a common threat to the region, stressing that the enemies do not mean well for Africa, especially the Sahel region.
The CDS stressed that both kinetic (military action) and non-kinetic (dialogue and rehabilitation) approaches must work together to tackle terrorism.
He revealed that the visit will midwife a visit to Burkina faso, and Mali as Nigeria continues more partnership
“Our brothers from Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, we are one family. Don’t allow anyone to tell you anything otherwise.”
Musa urged the Sahelian countries to block terrorists’ access to mining sites and identify their foreign sponsors to cut off their funding.
The delegation was led by the Coordinator of the Fusion Center for Dialogue and Peace Processes, Aliyu Gebi who commended the Nigerian military for its progress against insurgents.
“Whatever happens in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso would resonate in Nigeria. We must harmonise strategies towards winning peace.”
The Head of Delegation, Gen. Aime Sampore, highlighted the importance coordinated security in the region:
“A serene and stable Sahel would transmit directly to a serene, stable and prosperous Nigeria and the whole of Africa.”