ECOWAS Exit: Tinubu Sends Delegation To Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso

In its effort to address the recent decision by the Republic of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), President Bola Tinubu has delegated a high-level team to engage with the governments of these nations.

The President of ECOWAS, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, is leading a strategic diplomatic mission involving the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, the Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, and various senior government officials.

The official announcement on Sunday, January 28, marked the departure of the trio from ECOWAS, signaling a significant change in regional dynamics as they imposed military regimes and severed diplomatic relations with France.

The regional bloc has responded to this action by imposing sanctions, expressing concerns about its possible impact on security and economic stability in the region. Nigeria, facing ongoing insurgency challenges and economic pressures, stands particularly affected by these developments.

Experts have voiced apprehensions regarding the impact of these developments on Nigeria, highlighting the critical nature of security and economic ties within the ECOWAS region.

Experts have expressed concerns about the implications of these developments for Nigeria, emphasizing the crucial importance of security and economic connections within the ECOWAS region.

During an extraordinary session of the ECOWAS mediation and security council, Amb. Tuggar underscored the delegation’s efforts to address pressing issues facing member states, including climate change, violent extremism, migration, and organized crimes.

Defence Minister Badaru, speaking at the session alongside his counterparts from across the ECOWAS community, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional security collaboration.
Henshaw Ogubike, the spokesperson for the Defence Ministry, quoted Badaru’s emphasis on the importance of collective action to tackle security challenges in the region.

“Nigeria remains committed to working hand in hand with our ECOWAS counterparts to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens,” Badaru stated, highlighting the country’s dedication to regional peace and stability.

ECOWAS President, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, echoed the sentiment of unity and collective problem-solving, marking the delegation’s visit as a pivotal moment for the bloc to address its common challenges.

The engagement by President Tinubu’s team with the governments of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso signifies a crucial step towards reconciling differences within the ECOWAS community and reinforcing the foundations of regional cooperation and security.