The Chief of Defence Staff has highlighted the unintended consequences of military government changes in West Africa, stating that these shifts pose a threat to the region’s democratic values. During a meeting with West African Defence Chiefs in Abuja, the Chief of Defence Staff emphasized the importance of eliminating the threat of military takeovers, which contradict the fundamental principles of military professionalism.
In his address, he affirmed that military forces within democratic nations must uphold constitutional values, reinforcing the need for stability and governance. “Recent military coups in our neighboring countries have jeopardized our collective democratic values,” he asserted.
The Chief of Defence Staff expressed optimism that the ongoing discussions would foster peace and sustainable development. He stressed the necessity of collaboration among nations to combat these challenges effectively, urging attendees to address the root causes of regional insecurity.
Key topics set for discussion included the proposed Air Force Security Support Mission in Sierra Leone, as well as initiatives to enhance the Air Force’s logistics and peace support operations. He underscored the significance of each leader’s insights in achieving their shared mission to combat threats like terrorism, insurgency, and organized crime, which threaten both national security and socio-economic progress.
“This gathering reflects our commitment to creating a safe environment for our communities,” he stated, reaffirming the collective determination to tackle security challenges through concerted efforts.
