The U.S. government has announced plans to collaborate closely with Nigeria to lead discussions on implementing the Chemical Weapons Convention across the ECOWAS region.
Mallory Stewart, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Arms Control, Deterrence, and Stability, shared this during a media roundtable in Abuja.
Stewart emphasized the importance of Nigeria’s role in addressing chemical security challenges, particularly concerning non-state actors, and how regional cooperation could enhance stability.
Stewart also discussed ongoing U.S. efforts to support security in the Gulf of Guinea. She explored the potential for the U.S. to bolster the capacities and communication mechanisms within the Yaounde Architecture group, which focuses on maritime security.
The U.S. aims to improve teamwork among maritime centers in Nigeria and the broader region, recognizing Nigeria’s crucial role in these efforts.
Regarding the formation of a sub-regional standby force by ECOWAS, Stewart assured that U.S. embassy experts would continue to engage with the initiative, highlighting the U.S. commitment to supporting regional security efforts.