ECOWAS and Jam’iyyatu ansariddeen attijaniyya convene regional conference to address terrorism, violent extremism and governance in west Africa and the Sahel

The ECOWAS Commission, in partnership with Jam’iyyatu Ansariddeen Attijaniyya, convened the West African Islamic Conference on Security and Governance at the ECOWAS Parliament in Abuja. This high-profile conference, held from Tuesday, 4th to Thursday, 6th November 2025, brought together Islamic organizations, government representatives, traditional and religious leaders, scholars, policymakers, youth, and regional partners to develop actionable strategies to counter terrorism, violent extremism, and governance challenges across West Africa and the Sahel.

The conference focused on the theme, “The Role of Islamic Organizations in Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism in West Africa and the Sahel,” highlighting the urgent need to strengthen governance, protect vulnerable children in traditional Islamic education systems, and foster collaboration between state and non-state actors in promoting peace, social cohesion, and regional stability.

In his remarks, Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, African Union High Representative for Silencing the Guns and Chairman of the AU High-Level Panel on the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan, emphasized the importance of moral leadership and inclusive dialogue in resolving conflicts. He stated:

“Peace cannot be achieved by force, but by moral authority, spiritual guidance, and inclusive engagement. Our religious and traditional leaders, whose influence reaches deep into the hearts of our people, are indispensable partners in countering violence and building peaceful communities.”

Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah (Ph.D), ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, reiterated ECOWAS’ commitment to safeguarding the region. He stated:

“Fighting terrorism and violent extremism remains our top priority in achieving collective security, which is the foundation for regional stability, prosperity, and deeper integration. This requires a multipronged approach, combining good governance, social cohesion, and strong partnerships with faith-based organizations and communities.”

The conference is taking place at a critical moment, as West Africa and the Sahel continue to face rising threats from terrorist groups, transnational crime, and communal tensions. These challenges were compounded by the exploitation of vulnerable children in traditional Islamic school systems known as almajirai, talibés, or yan makaranta, who are at risk of manipulation by extremist networks. The event seeks to promote reform, regulation, and modernization of these systems while preserving their cultural and educational value.

Over the three-day forum, delegates deliberated on key sub-themes, including community-led resilience, reforming traditional Islamic education, countering misinformation, enhancing interfaith dialogue, promoting youth empowerment, and strengthening collaboration between Islamic institutions and governments

This initiative aligns with the ECOWAS Counter-Terrorism Strategy, the Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, the Declaration of Niamey on Education for a Culture of Peace, and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and “Silencing the Guns” roadmap. It demonstrates ECOWAS’ continued resolve to work with religious actors, communities, and regional partners to promote peace, tolerance, and development that leaves no one behind.

ECOWAS expressed its deep appreciation to the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for hosting the Conference, and to the African Union and regional partners for their collaboration. Financed through the ECOWAS Peace Fund, this initiative demonstrates ECOWAS’ strategic commitment to regional dialogue and locally driven solutions as part of its Vision 2050 goal of a ‘secure, stable and prosperous ECOWAS of the People.’