A grim statistic has emerged from West Africa, painting a dire picture of the rising violence fueled by terrorism in the region.
According to Foreign Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, more than 7,000 people were killed in terror attacks in West Africa in just the first five months of 2024.
Tuggar, who spoke at the opening of the 52nd session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council in Abuja, on Wednesday, stressed the need for collective action against terrorism and violent extremism, which threaten the stability and development of West Africa.
He noted that between January and May 2024, more than 7,000 people were killed in more than 800 terrorist incidents across the region, with Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali being the most affected.
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These shocking figures underscore the enormous security challenges facing West African countries. The Sahel region, which includes Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, has been a persistent hotspot for extremist activity. Groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) have caused heavy casualties among both civilians and military personnel.
He said, “Between January and May 2024, our region has witnessed more than 7,000 deaths from more than 800 terrorist incidents. Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali have been particularly hard hit by this unrelenting violence.
“This harsh reality highlights the enormous human cost of insecurity and underscores the urgency for coordinated and decisive action to combat this menace.
“Terrorism knows no borders. From the Sahel to the littoral states, no country is immune to its devastating impact. It is therefore imperative for every country in ECOWAS, including those in the Sahel region, to understand that the fight against terrorism is not the burden of a few, but a shared responsibility.
“Therefore, we must remain united and demonstrate strong commitment and determination to protect the lives and future of our citizens.”
The human cost of this violence goes far beyond the number of lives lost. Thousands more are likely injured, displaced from their homes, or living in constant fear. The social and economic fabric of societies across the region is undoubtedly under strain.
Tuggar’s remarks underscored the urgent need for a more coordinated response from West African countries. While individual countries have launched counter-terrorism initiatives, regional cooperation and intelligence sharing are critical to effectively combat this transnational threat.
West Africa Post: Nigerian Foreign Minister says 7,000 killed in terror attacks in five months first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.
