Nigerian military confronts new challenges after neighbors’ Ecowas exit

Speaking at the opening of the First Quarter Meeting with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding, and Commanders on Wednesday in Abuja, Abubakar highlighted the security implications of these countries’ departure under the newly formed Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

According to the Air Chief, the withdrawal of these Sahelian nations has disrupted existing security frameworks, particularly affecting multinational defence collaborations.

He emphasised that the withdrawal has direct consequences for the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), a key coalition in the fight against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) across Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon.

“With AES member states opting out and Chad considering withdrawal, the MNJTF’s capacity to conduct joint operations is now significantly affected,” Abubakar stated.

He added that Nigeria’s military—especially the Nigerian Air Force (NAF)—must now assume a greater role in regional security, requiring a more robust, adaptable, and agile response.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that, in light of these heightened security challenges, Abubakar stressed the need to reinforce operational readiness, improve inter-agency coordination, and leverage advanced air power.

“Strengthening operational readiness, enhancing inter-agency coordination, and leveraging advanced air power will be critical in mitigating these evolving threats as we progress through 2025,” he said.

He also noted that the Sahel region remains a hotbed for terrorism and insurgency, with Al-Qaeda-affiliated extremist groups exploiting weak governance structures to expand their influence.

The porous borders within the Lake Chad Basin have further enabled these extremist elements to sustain their activities, posing a persistent threat to regional stability.

Security Threats in the Gulf of Guinea

Beyond the Sahel, Abubakar acknowledged the ongoing security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea, where maritime crimes such as piracy and illegal oil bunkering continue to pose significant risks. He stressed that sustained aerial surveillance and stronger regional cooperation are necessary to bolster maritime security in the region.

“Addressing these challenges requires a unified approach, emphasising coordinated air operations, intelligence sharing, and strategic partnerships,” he added.

The Air Chief noted that the ongoing meeting presents an opportunity to assess Nigeria’s security landscape over the past year, review operational successes and setbacks, and devise actionable strategies for NAF operations in 2025.

“As the senior leadership of the Nigerian Air Force, we bear the crucial responsibility of ensuring the effective deployment of air power in support of national security objectives,” Abubakar said.

He commended the dedication and resilience of NAF personnel and urged commanders to engage in discussions with commitment and foresight as they plan for the year ahead.