One or two of the three West African nations that recently announced their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are now exploring ways to reestablish ties with the regional bloc.
This revelation came from Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication.
Speaking to journalists at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, Dare disclosed that at least one of the nations that exited ECOWAS is reconsidering its stance within the six-month grace period granted by the regional body.
Background on ECOWAS Withdrawal
Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—three Sahelian nations governed by military juntas—officially announced their departure from ECOWAS following disagreements over the demand for a return to civilian rule. Their collective withdrawal, finalized on January 29, 2025, marked a significant shift in West African geopolitics, with concerns raised over regional security, economic cooperation, and diplomatic relations.
However, Dare indicated that diplomatic overtures are underway, with some of these countries seeking to leverage the transition window before the withdrawal process is fully concluded.
“We are aware that the January 29 deadline has passed and the separation process is almost complete. However, we also have verifiable information that one or two of these nations are making efforts to reconnect and utilize the six-month window provided by ECOWAS,” Dare explained.
AU Summit as a Diplomatic Opportunity
Dare further highlighted the upcoming African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, as a pivotal moment for discussions on the issue. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who currently serves as Chairman of ECOWAS, is expected to engage in high-level talks aimed at fostering regional stability and diplomatic reconciliation.
“The AU Summit provides a strategic platform for the ECOWAS Chairman to update the continental body on the situation. Many of the affected countries will be present, creating an opportunity for bilateral and multilateral negotiations,” Dare stated.
Beyond ECOWAS matters, Dare emphasized Nigeria’s active role in the AU, noting that the country remains a central figure in shaping policies across Africa. He described President Tinubu as a significant force within the AU, particularly in addressing regional security challenges and promoting economic collaboration.
Nigeria’s Influence in Continental Affairs
Dare also revealed that one of the key diplomatic wins for Nigeria at the AU Summit would be the expected appointment of a Nigerian representative to the AU Peace and Security Council. He described this as a major milestone in President Tinubu’s foreign policy agenda, reinforcing Nigeria’s leadership in continental security affairs.
“The AU Peace and Security Commission is crucial for maintaining stability across Africa. Having a Nigerian representative in this body is a testament to our country’s diplomatic strength and President Tinubu’s proactive engagement in regional security,” he added.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) Leadership Transition
In addition to diplomatic engagements at the AU Summit, Nigeria’s influence will extend to the African Development Bank (AfDB), where a leadership transition is on the horizon. Dare underscored the strategic importance of Nigeria’s endorsement in determining the next AfDB president, as the incumbent nears the end of his tenure.
“The AfDB presidency is a highly competitive position. With a Nigerian currently holding the role, the next candidate will need strong backing. Nigeria’s support, particularly President Tinubu’s endorsement, will be a decisive factor in the selection process,” he explained.
AU Summit: Africa’s Diplomatic Powerhouse
Drawing parallels with the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Dare described the AU Summit as the most significant diplomatic gathering on the continent.
“The AU Summit is Africa’s equivalent of the UNGA, where critical decisions about the continent’s future are made. Just as world leaders convene annually in New York, African leaders converge in Addis Ababa to shape policies and strengthen regional cooperation,” he said.
President Tinubu is set to lead Nigeria’s delegation at the summit, with expectations of meaningful discussions and tangible diplomatic outcomes.
