Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Chief of Air Staff, expressed concerns that the withdrawal of the Alliance of Sahel States from ECOWAS has disrupted security frameworks in the region. He also noted that Chad’s intention to exit the Multinational Joint Task Force could hinder the operational capacity of the joint security force. Speaking at a review meeting with Field Commanders in Abuja, he highlighted the increasing sophistication of terrorist groups, referencing their use of drones carrying homemade grenades for attacks on troops in Damboa last year.
Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive and integrated Counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle system to protect troops and air assets. On January 29, 2025, ECOWAS acknowledged the exit of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger following the completion of a one-year notice period. In a gesture of “regional solidarity,” ECOWAS requested that member countries continue to recognize the national passports of these departing states, which bear the ECOWAS logo, until further notice.
The withdrawal of these nations has created uncertainty within ECOWAS, as they formally notified their intent to leave in January 2024 due to concerns over the organization’s reliance on France. The three juntas now seek closer ties with countries like Russia, Turkey, and Iran, viewing Paris as a common adversary.