The ECOWAS Commission is organizing the Governmental Workshop for the Validation of the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF) Operational Framework from May 29-31, 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria. This workshop marks the final phase of a comprehensive review process aimed at adapting the ESF Operational Framework to address contemporary security and political challenges in the region.
The objective of this workshop which brings together representatives from the ECOWAS Commission, the European Union Delegation (EUD) in Abuja, GIZ, delegates from Member States, Technical Committee Experts (TCEs), resource persons, and experts from the military, police, and civilian sectors with extensive experience in Peace Support Operations (PSO), logistics, and counterterrorism, is to enhance the draft ESF Operational Framework, thereby building the capacity of the ESF to effectively respond to the complexities of the modern operational environment.
In his opening remarks Dr. Pawoumothom Cyriaque Agnekethom, Director of Peacekeeping and Regional Security, on behalf of Amb. Abdel-Fatau Musah, PhD, Commissioner of Political Affairs, Peace & Security of the ECOWAS Commission, expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders involved in this review, he emphasized that the current review is essential for updating the framework to reflect the latest trends and security threats in the region. "The review process, which began three years ago, has been thorough, and we are now presenting the revised document for governmental validation. The deployment of the ESF must consider the existing security threats in the region. I call for the continued support of member states' experts for the upcoming review of the logistic concept and logistic management."
Mrs. Celine Lhoste, speaking on behalf of the European Union, highlighted the significant support provided by the ECOWAS Peace and Security Architecture and Operations (EPSAO) regional program, co-funded by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). "The EPSAO program, with a budget of €24 million, has supported various interventions aimed at strengthening ECOWAS mechanisms. These include capacity building for civilian, police, and military personnel, facilitating training, and ongoing acquisitions, despite the security context in the region."
The Governmental Validation Workshop represents a significant milestone in enhancing the ESF's operational readiness and adaptability. By incorporating feedback from experienced delegates and experts, ECOWAS aims to finalize an Operational Framework that is well-equipped to tackle the contemporary security landscape, ensuring peace and stability in the region.
This workshop is organized through the ECOWAS EPSAO project, co-funded by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
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