The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has commenced a five-day Governmental Experts Meeting in Abuja to validate the Logistics Concept and Depot Policies for ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF).
The meeting, which runs from 24 to 28 February 2025, has the objectives of enhancing the operational framework for regional peace support missions by strengthening logistics coordination and deployment efficiency.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Ambassador Abedel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, Dr. Adamu Mohammed Sani, Ag Head of Peace Support Operations at ECOWAS, emphasised the critical role of logistics in ensuring effective peace support operations.
“The completion of the ECOWAS Logistics Depot in Lungi, Sierra Leone, is a major achievement, but it must be supported by clear and efficient policies to guide its day -to – day operations. A well-structured logistics system is the backbone of any successful peacekeeping effort,” he stated.
Chairing the meeting, Air Commodore Sampson Eyekosi of Nigeria reiterated the strategic importance of an efficient logistics framework for ECOWAS’ peace and security efforts.
“Ensuring that our logistics systems are responsive and well-coordinated is essential to the credibility and effectiveness of ECOWAS’ peacekeeping operations.
This validation process will ensure that ECOWAS peacekeeping efforts are well-coordinated, self-sufficient, and capable of responding swiftly to crises,” he remarked.
The regional meeting is being organized by the ECOWAS Peace Support Operations Division, attracting high-level government experts from member states across West Africa.
Participants include senior military officers, logistics specialists, and policymakers from across the ECOWAS region, alongside independent experts and resource persons.
Their collective expertise will contribute to shaping logistics policies that align with international best practices while addressing the specific security needs of West Africa.
This initiative reinforces ECOWAS’ commitment to strengthening regional security infrastructure and enhancing the operational readiness of its standby force.
The outcomes of this meeting will play a crucial role in ensuring rapid and effective peace operations, contributing to a more secure and resilient West Africa.
