Nigeria, March 25 -- In February, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) chiefs of staff endorsed the establishment of a regional force to combat terrorism and insecurity. The force falls within the framework of the ECOWAS Standby Force as provided for by the African Union (AU).

Announced in August 2025, the force was initially intended to comprise 260,000 troops with an estimated annual budget of $2.5 billion. However, the military chiefs opted for a counter-terrorism brigade of 1,650 soldiers to form the core of the force.

Benin, Cote d'Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Nigeria and Senegal reaffirmed their commitment to providing troops. Contingents will be stationed in their respective countries, ready for deployment.

ECOWA...