Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), has called for a united security alliance between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to combat terrorism, dismantle cross-border criminal networks, and restore peace and stability across West Africa.

General Musa made the appeal on Wednesday upon his arrival in Cotonou, Benin Republic, for a three-day working visit aimed at harmonising regional defence strategies and strengthening security cooperation among neighbouring countries.

According to a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde, the minister stressed that only a coordinated regional response could effectively tackle the growing threats posed by insurgency, organised crime, and maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea.

Musa was received at the Cotonou International Airport by Benin’s Minister of National Defence, Mr. Gildas Agonkan.

Addressing defence officials, the Nigerian minister said West Africa’s evolving security challenges demand stronger collaboration between ECOWAS and the AES, despite existing political differences.

He urged leaders of both regional blocs to work towards common security objectives by strengthening land border controls to prevent insurgent movements and enhancing maritime security across the Gulf of Guinea.

“The security of the region is a shared responsibility that requires collective action and sustained cooperation,” he said, stressing that regional unity remains critical to defeating terrorism and safeguarding economic activities.

In his remarks, Benin’s Minister of National Defence, Mr. Gildas Agonkan, commended Nigeria for its leadership role in promoting peace and stability across West Africa.

He praised Nigeria’s swift interventions in defending democratic governance in the sub-region and described the country as an indispensable partner in the fight against terrorism and transnational crime.

Agonkan also lauded the outstanding performance of the Nigerian Army contingent during Benin’s National Day parade held on August 1.

As part of the visit, General Musa met with Nigerian troops stationed at Togbin, where he reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to improving troop welfare, enhancing operational effectiveness, and providing the military with the resources needed to confront emerging security threats.

The Defence Minister also visited the Nigeria House in Cotonou, where he was hosted by Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Mrs. Mopelola Ibrahim.

Ambassador Ibrahim said Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement with Benin is anchored on expanding bilateral trade and strengthening joint border surveillance to improve regional security and economic cooperation.