The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has condemned recent terrorist attacks targeting Benin’s border districts near Niger and Burkina Faso, resulting in significant casualties. The attacks, which took place on January 8, 2025, left several people dead, including soldiers, and further intensified security concerns in the region.
Although no group has claimed responsibility, Benin has been grappling with increasing threats from jihadist groups operating along its northern borders. Colonel Faizou Gomina, the chief of staff of the National Guard, described the assault as a serious blow to the country’s military, noting that one of its most strategic positions was hit. The opposition party, The Democrats, reported that about 30 soldiers were killed in the attack on the Alibori region, though the exact death toll remains unconfirmed.
This latest attack comes on the heels of other incidents, including the killing of three soldiers in December 2024 while guarding an oil pipeline in northeastern Benin. Benin has lost more than 120 military personnel to jihadist violence in the north since 2021.
ECOWAS expressed condolences to Benin’s government and its people, especially the families of those who died defending the country. The commission reiterated its commitment to combating terrorism across West Africa, urging member states to increase cooperation in intelligence sharing and border security.
