The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is exploring the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies to strengthen regional security, with a focus on enhancing counter-terrorism and peace operations across West Africa.
This initiative reflects a proactive response to the region’s persistent security challenges, including terrorism, insurgency, and even climate-related threats.
The discussions emerged during a recent validation meeting of governmental experts in Abuja, where officials deliberated on refining logistics frameworks for Peace Support Operations (PSO) ahead of the commissioning of the ECOWAS Logistics Depot in Lungi, Sierra Leone, later this year.
This depot will serve as a vital hub for the ECOWAS Standby Force, enabling swift and efficient deployment to address threats throughout the region.
At the heart of this technological push is a proposal to incorporate AI, drones, and other cutting-edge tools into the Standby Force’s operations.
Air Commodore Sampson Eyekosi, a Nigerian Air Force officer and chairman of the validation meeting, emphasized the transformative potential of these technologies. “We want to leverage technology and fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other threats we see, even climate change,” he stated, underscoring the need for AI and drones to bolster security efforts.
The proposal, which Eyekosi described as requiring a collaborative “whole-of-the-community” approach, will be presented for ratification by the Heads of State and Government in March. This collaborative effort aims to unite diverse expertise—from early warning systems to humanitarian initiatives and youth and women’s groups—to ensure a comprehensive strategy for peace and security.
The validation meeting also highlighted the importance of self-reliance in equipping the Standby Force. Eyekosi stressed that ECOWAS intends to source military hardware locally, reducing dependence on external suppliers for the equipment needed in counter-terrorism and peace missions.
This shift toward regional production is paired with a strong emphasis on funding. Recognizing that financial resources are critical to operational success, Eyekosi urged the ECOWAS Commission to explore diverse funding avenues, including contributions from member states and partnerships with the private sector. “Peace and security is first our responsibility,” he asserted. “We must take ownership. We must take charge.” This call for ownership reflects a broader determination to prioritize internal capabilities while still welcoming external support as a supplement rather than a crutch.
A practical example of AI’s growing role in the region comes from the Nigerian Navy, which has already begun integrating the technology into its operational framework. Late last year, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla announced plans to leverage AI and emerging technologies to enhance naval activities, aiming to sharpen the Navy’s competitive edge at sea.
This initiative aligns with global trends where military forces are increasingly adopting AI to automate tasks, improve decision-making, and address complex challenges. From powering surveillance systems to optimizing logistics, AI’s applications in military contexts are vast, and the Nigerian Navy’s efforts signal a pioneering step for West Africa.
As ECOWAS prepares to operationalize the Logistics Depot and refine its security strategies, the integration of AI holds significant promise. The technology could streamline operations, enhance responsiveness, and provide data-driven insights to tackle the region’s evolving threats. Yet, success will depend on more than just technological adoption.
Eyekosi emphasized the need for a “whole-of-society approach,” calling on stakeholders—including the media, private sector, and civil society—to collaborate in disseminating information and building support for these efforts. With the depot’s commissioning on the horizon and the AI proposal under review, ECOWAS stands at a critical juncture. If implemented effectively, these advancements could mark a turning point, equipping the region with the tools to build a more secure and resilient future.
As Eyekosi noted, “We need to work together, and this is what we are doing,” signaling a collective resolve to harness technology for the greater good of West Africa.
