AU commits $21.1m to MNJTF, as FG, AU discuss Sahel security

​By Precious Mark

The African Union has committed $21.1 million to support the operations of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) as part of broader measures to combat terrorism and restore stability across West Africa and the Sahel region.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs disclosed this on Monday following an engagement with the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Dr. Bankole Adeoye, on the sidelines of the ongoing 49th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Discussions during the session centered on regional security challenges, Nigeria’s strategic role in evolving geopolitical dynamics, and the operational hurdles facing peace support operations across the continent.

The Minister underscored Nigeria’s longstanding participation in the AU Peace and Security Council over the past 22 years, reaffirming the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to democracy and zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government across the region.

“Our discussions centered on a wide range of issues, including Nigeria’s strong commitment to democracy on the continent and the Nigerian Government’s resolute support for the Multinational Joint Task Force.”

“The African Union has also committed $21.1 million towards the operations of the MNJTF and continues to explore preventive mechanisms to deal with conflict across the continent,” the Minister stated.

During the meeting, Dr. Adeoye advocated for the full operationalization of the Africa Standby Force, alongside the development of capacity and networks for AI-enabled drones and modern conflict architecture to address emerging security threats.

The bilateral talks also covered the establishment of structured training programs for young diplomats, as well as strengthening dynamic partnerships between the European Union (EU) and ECOWAS to promote peace security, and good governance throughout Africa.