Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, also ECOWAS Chair, has called for strengthened regional cooperation and international support to tackle rising insecurity in West Africa.

Speaking at the ECOWAS High-Level Consultative Conference on Regional Cooperation and Security, he warned that terrorism, violent extremism, and cross-border armed groups have outpaced national responses, particularly in the Central Sahel.

President Bio stressed that West Africa faces a shared security reality, where the safety of one nation depends on that of its neighbors.

He urged a unified strategy anchored by ECOWAS, highlighting intelligence sharing, border management, logistics, and surveillance as essential tools.

Beyond military measures, he emphasized governance, inclusive development, and social cohesion as key to preventing radicalization.

Drawing from Sierra Leone’s post-conflict experience, he highlighted the need for education, economic opportunities for youth and women, and accountable institutions.

He also called on international partners, especially the UN, to support African-led mechanisms, including full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2719.

Noting climate change as a threat multiplier, President Bio urged integrating climate risks into regional security and early warning systems.

Concluding, he reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to lead ECOWAS with resolve and inclusivity, stressing that regional leaders must act collectively to secure peace and stability.