The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has raised alarm over the growing terrorist threat in West Africa, particularly as violent extremist activity spreads from the Sahel into coastal nations.

General Dagvin Anderson stressed the need for strong regional cooperation in a February 24 interview on JoyNews’ Africa Connect, stating, “No one nation can take this threat out alone.”

General Anderson highlighted that extremist networks, displaced by global counterterrorism efforts, are exploiting ungoverned spaces in the Sahel to establish operational bases and expand influence.

This migration of violent actors has heightened instability, resulting in mass displacement, refugee flows, and cross-border violence affecting countries such as Ghana.

He specifically referenced recent attacks along Ghana’s northern borders, where civilians engaging in daily trade fell victim to extremist violence.

“My heart goes out to the Ghanaians that were up there just doing trade working, who were also killed by violent extremists, just doing their daily job,” Anderson remarked, emphasizing the human toll of the insecurity.

AFRICOM is actively monitoring these developments and working to support West African nations in mitigating the threat.

General Anderson stressed that his regional travels focus on strengthening partnerships, coordinating responses, and assisting local security forces to stabilize areas affected by extremist activity.

Coastal states are urged to enhance vigilance along borders in light of attacks in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, which continue to threaten the broader region.