The Nigerian military is facing new challenges following the withdrawal of neighboring countries Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). According to Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, Nigeria's Chief of Air Staff, the departure of these countries has disrupted existing security frameworks and affected multinational defense collaborations.

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. Abubakar stated that with AES member states opting out and Chad considering withdrawal, the MNJTF's capacity to conduct joint operations is now significantly affected.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) must now assume a greater role in regional security, requiring a more robust, adaptable, and agile response. Abubakar emphasized the need to reinforce operational readiness, improve inter-agency coordination, and leverage advanced air power to mitigate the evolving threats in the region.

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.

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.

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. 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.

The implications of the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali from ECOWAS are far-reaching, and Nigeria's military must adapt to the new security landscape. As the country assumes a greater role in regional security, it is crucial to prioritize operational readiness, inter-agency coordination, and advanced air power to combat the evolving threats in the region.

The situation highlights the need for sustained cooperation and collaboration among regional countries to address the security challenges in the Sahel and Gulf of Guinea. As the Nigerian military navigates this new landscape, it is essential to prioritize strategic partnerships, intelligence sharing, and coordinated air operations to ensure regional stability and security.