Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has announced plans to strengthen the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) to combat terrorism in West Africa. Speaking at Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary Foreign Policy Lecture in Abuja, Tuggar emphasized Nigeria’s leadership in pushing for the revitalization of the MNJTF, working closely with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to reposition the regional Standby Force for greater effectiveness.
Tuggar stressed the importance of peace, stability, and good governance in ensuring economic growth, particularly as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) continues to gain momentum. He called for regional cooperation and organic solutions, backed by genuine international partners, to address security challenges in West Africa and the expanding Sahel region.
Highlighting the Tinubu administration’s “4-D Diplomacy” approach—focused on Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora—Tuggar linked Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives to domestic needs, including job creation, industrialization, and infrastructure development.
Former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Martin Luther Agwai, also emphasized ECOWAS’ critical role in advancing democracy and stability, noting its proactive stance against unconstitutional changes of government and its efforts in fostering regional security in the Sahel, where terrorism and transnational crime remain pressing concerns.
ARCAN Chairman, Ambassador Joe Keshi, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for collective action and coordination within ECOWAS to address security challenges and promote equitable regional cooperation.
