Daud Olatunji
In a somber response to the recent announcement from the Military authority in the Republic of Niger, Nigeria expresses deep sadness over the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through spokesperson Mrs. Francisca K. Omayuli, conveyed this sentiment in an official statement.
Omayuli emphasized the pivotal role ECOWAS has played in promoting peace, prosperity, and democracy in the West African region for the past fifty years.
She said Nigeria stands firmly with ECOWAS, underscoring the importance of due process and a shared commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of citizens across member states.
Despite Nigeria’s sincere and good-faith efforts to engage with all ECOWAS members to address challenges, it is evident that those opting to leave the community lack the same commitment.
Omayuli criticized unelected leaders for publicly posturing, potentially denying their people the sovereign right to make crucial choices regarding freedom of movement, trade, and leadership selection.
Undeterred, Nigeria remains open to engaging with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. The goal is to ensure that all people in the region can continue benefiting from the economic advantages and democratic values championed by ECOWAS.
Additionally, Nigeria appeals to the international community to maintain its support for ECOWAS, fostering a vision of closer partnership, cooperation, and integration in the region.
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