President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has underscored the critical importance of establishing a standby force within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), emphasising that such a force is crucial for safeguarding regional stability and security.

According to President Akufo-Addo, the creation of this standby force would significantly contribute to curbing the alarming rise in coups and the unconstitutional change of governments that have plagued the West African sub-region in recent years.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the second Africa Security Conference and Exhibition, held in Accra, President Akufo-Addo articulated his firm belief that a dedicated ECOWAS standby force is not only necessary but overdue.

He argued that the presence of such a force would act as a formidable deterrent against the forces that seek to destabilise the region through unconstitutional means, as well as those who perpetuate violence through terrorism and insurgencies.

President Akufo-Addo expressed his confidence that if such a force had been operational in the past, it could have played a pivotal role in preventing the series of military coups that have disrupted the political landscape of several West African nations.

“At the last summit, the ECOWAS authority agreed to bring the ECOWAS standby force into being as soon as possible. I have no doubt that had it been in existence earlier, it would have served as a deterrent to the multiplicity of coups and the spread of terrorism.

“The establishment of this force is essential for maintaining regional stability and security. It will enable ECOWAS to respond swiftly and effectively to threats, uphold democratic governance and promote peace across West Africa.”

Akufo-Addo’s remarks come at a time when West Africa is grappling with a series of challenges that threaten the stability of the region.

The resurgence of military coups, often driven by a combination of political discontent and economic hardship, has raised serious concerns about the future of democracy in the sub-region.

Additionally, the persistent threat of terrorism and insurgencies, particularly in countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, has further exacerbated the security situation.