IN a resounding call to action, African leaders gathered at a security summit in Nigeria have demanded a comprehensive overhaul of institutions combatting violent extremism across the continent. The summit, held amidst escalating attacks by groups affiliated with Islamic State and al Qaeda, highlighted the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the growing menace.
Togolese President Faure Gnassingbe, speaking at the summit, emphasised the gravity of the situation, stating, ‘I say this with prudence and regret, but I think the institutions that have been in place for a number of decades are no longer able to respond to the security situation that we face.’ Gnassingbe’s remarks underscored the profound challenges faced by nations in combating the evolving threat landscape.
According to African Union Commission chairperson Moussa Faki, the frequency of attacks by extremist groups in Africa has reached alarming levels, with daily attacks rising to eight and resulting in 44 deaths last year alone. Faki expressed deep concern over the toll on civilian lives, revealing that 7,000 civilians and 4,000 military personnel fell victim to extremist violence in the past year, further exacerbating instability and creating fertile ground for military coups in affected countries.
United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed echoed these sentiments, highlighting the disproportionate impact of terrorism on the Sahel region, where half of global terrorism-related deaths occur. Mohammed’s remarks underscored the urgent need for international cooperation and support in addressing the root causes of extremism in vulnerable regions.
The summit also addressed geopolitical complexities, with tensions rising over foreign military presence in affected areas. France’s recent withdrawal of troops from Niger sparked controversy, prompting calls for the departure of US forces from a military base in Agadez. Amidst these developments, African leaders emphasised the need for increased funding to bolster counterterrorism efforts and mitigate the spread of extremist ideologies.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu stressed the importance of halting the proliferation of small arms and weapons, calling for the establishment of a regional standby force dedicated to combating terrorism. Tinubu stressed the deterrent effect of such a force, highlighting its role in preventing large-scale terrorist operations and safeguarding strategic assets and resources.
As African leaders grapple with the multifaceted challenges posed by violent extremism, the summit signals a collective resolve to confront the threat head-on and implement robust measures to safeguard the continent’s security and stability.
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