Police chiefs of Burkina Faso Mali and Niger unite for stronger security ties

Top law enforcement leaders from Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger convened in Ouagadougou this week to deepen their security collaboration within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The meeting brought together police chiefs and technical experts to develop unified strategies for tackling the region’s escalating security threats.

The gathering focused on aligning policing protocols, enhancing information-sharing systems and boosting operational readiness across all three nations. Key priorities include joint investigative approaches, coordinated crowd control measures and the integration of advanced forensic and technological tools. Discussions also centered on improving judicial cooperation to ensure seamless legal proceedings across borders.

At the opening session, Inspecteur Général Thierry Dofizouho Tuina, head of Burkina Faso’s National Police, emphasized the need for police forces to serve as proactive instruments in strengthening the AES. He highlighted this event as a follow-up to the landmark January 2025 police chiefs’ meeting in Bamako and the July ministerial security conference.

Border security emerged as another critical theme. Participants explored ways to streamline cross-border movement by standardizing checkpoint procedures, enhancing intelligence exchange and eliminating unofficial levies on major transit routes. Such measures aim to facilitate smoother trade while curbing illicit activities along shared borders.

Contrôleur Général Youssouf Koné, Mali’s top police official, underscored the importance of pooling resources to meet public security demands and foster sustainable growth within the confederation. Meanwhile, Commissaire Général Assahaba Ebankawal of Niger stressed that consolidated efforts are essential to counter the surge in terrorist incidents, organized crime and other cross-border threats plaguing the region.

The three-day discussions are expected to yield actionable recommendations to reinforce policing cooperation across the AES, reinforcing a united front against shared security challenges.