The Fifth Meeting of the ECOWAS Sub-Committee of Chiefs of Naval Staff and Coast Guards concluded on Friday, 20 February 2026, at the Oak Plaza Hotel in Accra.
Discussions focused on practical implementation measures, including resource mobilisation, joint patrols, improved communication, and intelligence sharing. Participants reviewed the YARIS platform, Maritime Coordination Centres, and the Combined Maritime Task Force, stressing clear timelines and sustainable outcomes.
Representing the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Commodore Samuel Ayelazono, called for renewed resolve and stronger collaboration to safeguard the Gulf of Guinea. He acknowledged progress made under the Yaoundé Code of Conduct, which has contributed to a reduction in piracy through regional cooperation, but cautioned that threats such as illegal fishing, drug and arms trafficking, and marine pollution persist. He urged members to remain proactive and avoid complacency.
The Chiefs of Naval Staff, as part of the meeting, visited the headquarters of the Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) Zone F, where they commended the Government of Ghana for hosting the Centre and providing personnel to support its operations.
On behalf of His Excellency Dr Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security (CPAPS), delivered the official closing address at the 5th ECOWAS Sub-Committee of Chiefs of Naval Staff meeting. He stressed the urgent need for the ECOWAS Commission to maintain close and sustained collaboration with Member States in order to reinforce and strengthen the regional maritime security architecture across West Africa.
Ambassador Musah conveyed profound appreciation to the Republic of Ghana for its gracious hospitality and exemplary hosting of the conference, while extending warm commendation to all delegates for their insightful contributions, active participation, and constructive engagement throughout the proceedings.
