Freetown: Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, hosted the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Freetown for their 44th Ordinary Meeting, highlighting Sierra Leone’s growing influence within West Africa’s security framework. The February 26, 2026, meeting brought regional military leaders together to discuss evolving defence threats confronting West Africa.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the discussions emphasized strengthened collaboration among Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) members, addressing both strategic approaches and collective responsibility for maintaining stability in the face of spreading instability across the sub-region. The engagement highlighted the need for unified action and shared strategies.
VP Jalloh proposed the establishment of a Regional Defence Academy, envisioned as a centre of excellence for joint training among young officers from across ECOWAS. He argued that such an institution would enhance professional capacity and foster trust among future military leaders, emphasizing that shared experiences create bonds that transcend national borders.
“Beyond professional development, shared experiences create bonds that transcend borders,” Jalloh noted, reflecting strategic thinking that regional security strengthens when relationships are developed early and sustained over time. The academy represents practical steps toward deeper integration and coordinated responses.
On behalf of President Julius Maada Bio, the Vice President expressed sincere appreciation to the Defence Chiefs for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding democracy, peace, and stability across West Africa. The meeting concluded with a unified resolve, recognizing that protecting the region demands collective vision and consistent cooperation.