The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reportedly agreed to establish a regional force to combat jihadist activities and rising insecurity in West Africa.

The decision was reached during a meeting of military chiefs in Freetown, according to sources.

The proposed force is expected to comprise about 2,000 troops tasked with tackling terrorism, transnational crime and maritime insecurity. The troops will remain stationed in their home countries, with Sierra Leone serving as the logistics base.

Officials are still working out funding arrangements, while ECOWAS has yet to issue an official statement.

The move comes amid persistent insurgency in the Sahel, where groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State remain active.

The threat has been most severe in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, which recently exited ECOWAS after military coups.

A senior regional military official said the three countries would be encouraged to cooperate with the new force, stressing their importance in the fight against jihadist groups.

The initiative is aimed at strengthening regional security cooperation and improving ECOWAS’ response to cross-border threats.