In a bid to address the escalating conflict and instability in coastal West Africa, United States (US) Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has pledged an additional $45 million in financing, News About Nigeria reports.
The announcement was made during a joint press briefing in Abidjan on Tuesday as part of Blinken’s four-nation tour of Africa, which includes Cape Verde, Ivory Coast (Cote d’Ivoire), Nigeria, and Angola from January 21–26.
The financial aid will be used to support combating jihadist insurgencies and other security issues that have recently plagued the area.
Blinken acknowledged the region’s involvement in the fight against terrorism and violence while noting the persistent security issues faced by West Africa.
The financing promise comes after the Secretary of State and President Alassane Ouattara of Ivory Coast met and talked about concerns pertaining to mutual security.
Blinken praised Ivory Coast for its leadership in fighting extremism and stressed the value of teamwork in resolving issues about shared security.
The funds announced by Blinken will supplement the $300 million that the U.S. has already invested in coastal West Africa over the past two years.
The financial support will go towards improving military training and bolstering civil protection efforts in Ivory Coast, as stated by the Secretary of State.
President Ouattara expressed appreciation for the U.S. support, particularly in intelligence and the fight against terrorism.
Despite international military efforts to restrain them, jihadist insurgencies that started in Mali in 2012 have expanded throughout the Sahel and affected the West African area.
The $45 million pledge aims to contribute to ongoing efforts to stabilise the region and address security threats.
Blinken’s visit to West Africa also includes discussions on trade, climate, infrastructure, health, and other partnership issues.
