The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Sub-Committee of Chiefs of Naval Staff is meeting in Praia, Cabo Verde, from February 25 to 27, 2025, to discuss critical maritime security issues in the region.
The meeting’s objective is to discuss the financial and operational implications of the Yaoundé Architecture Regional Information System (YARIS) information-sharing platform, as well as its functionality and ownership issues.
The meeting will also address staffing and information-sharing challenges between ECOWAS Maritime Coordination Centers and Member States’ National Maritime Operational Centers, Exchange of information between the ECOWAS maritime coordination centres and the national operational centres of the Member States, Presentation of activity reports from maritime coordination centres.
This meeting of Chiefs of Naval Staff brings together participants from the ECOWAS Commission, ECOWAS Maritime Centres, Chiefs of Naval Staff of Member States, and their Heads of Operations.
During the Opening Ceremony, the Chief of Naval Staff, Commander Armindo António da Graça of the Cabo Verde Navy and Coast Guard emphasized the importance of adaptability in addressing maritime threats. “The threats we face are dynamic and constantly evolving, requiring flexible and innovative responses,” he stated.
To achieve this, Commander da Graça highlighted the need for strengthened cooperation between national and international agencies. He emphasized that sharing information, conducting joint operations, and developing a coordinated maritime security strategy are crucial for ensuring safe waters for trade, tourism, and other economic activities.
Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, PhD, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security of the ECOWAS Commission, emphasized the maritime sector’s vital role in driving the region’s economy. Represented by General Mactar Diop, Chief of Staff of the ECOWAS Standby Force, Ambassador Musah stressed that strategic investments are essential to securing the maritime domain, which is crucial for the region’s social and economic development.
Dr. Miryan Djamila Sena Vieira, State Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Cape Verde, emphasized the urgent need for coordinated actions and solid strategies to combat transnational organized crime. This type of crime, which includes illicit activities such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, piracy, and terrorism, is exacerbated by climate change and maritime pollution.
Dr. Vieira highlighted the importance of addressing these issues, particularly in the Atlantic region, which includes the Gulf of Guinea. She stressed that security in this area requires the development of complementary synergies, both internally and externally.
Source : ECOWAS
