Preparing Future Non-Commissioned Officers to Address Terrorism

From 4 to 6 May 2026, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung’s Regional Programme “Security Policy Dialogue in West Africa” (SIPODI) held an introductory course on counterterrorism at the École nationale des sous-officiers d’active (ENSOA) in Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire. The initiative aims to strengthen understanding of the security threats facing the region’s armed forces from the outset of military training.

The evolving terrorist threat in West Africa requires defence and security institutions to continually adapt their training. Non-commissioned officers play an essential role in leading military personnel and carrying out missions. Understanding these developments and assessing their implications are therefore important elements of their preparation.

Against this backdrop, SIPODI launched a new educational initiative in Bouaké to introduce foundational knowledge of counterterrorism into military training institutions.

Understanding Threats and Prevention

Over three days, trainee non-commissioned officers discussed the characteristics of terrorist threats, the prevention of violent extremism and counterterrorism strategies with several experts. The presentations also addressed the specific challenges facing defence and security forces in West Africa.

The opening ceremony was chaired by ENSOA Commandant Lieutenant Colonel Djama Djama. His participation underlined the school’s commitment to adapting its training to the region’s changing security environment.

Learning Through Discussion

The trainees participated actively throughout the course. Numerous questions following the presentations provided opportunities to explore the topics in greater depth and connect the experts’ analyses with the concerns of future military leaders.

This interactive approach aimed to strengthen participants’ analytical skills and highlight the importance of prevention, anticipation and cooperation in addressing evolving threats.

Embedding These Topics in Military Education

This first course represents a step towards incorporating these topics more firmly into the initial training of non-commissioned officers. Through the initiative, SIPODI supports military training institutions in developing their curricula and contributes to the professionalisation of defence and security forces in West Africa.