Article of the day: The Chiefs of Staff of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) meet in Abuja to study the situation in Niger
The political situation in Niger following the coup that overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, 2023 is causing concern within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The Chiefs of Staff are meeting from this Wednesday in Abuja to assess the situation and consider possible measures. The military option is considered as a last resort, but the members of ECOWAS are preparing for this eventuality.
The objective of this meeting is to develop an action plan for a possible military intervention in Niger. The military experts will base themselves on the studies in progress to set up an anti-terrorist component within the ECOWAS standby force. The intervention could start with targeted actions before considering a larger deployment if necessary.
The question of the financing of the intervention was raised, with an important part having to come from internal resources. Nigeria would be ready to provide the majority of the troops mobilized. However, no decision has yet been taken on possible international intelligence cooperation. The date of the intervention will be decided by the political leaders of ECOWAS.
At the same time as this meeting, the effects of the sanctions imposed by ECOWAS and the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) are beginning to be felt in Niger. Power cuts have been observed and the borders with Nigeria and Benin have been closed, driving up the prices of basic necessities.
In conclusion, the situation in Niger is of concern to ECOWAS, which is preparing for a possible military intervention. The Chiefs of Staff meet in Abuja to put in place an action plan. The effects of the sanctions are already being felt, putting additional pressure on the people of Niger. The international community is following developments closely, in the hope of preserving stability in the region