President Tinubu Reaffirms ECOWAS Commitment to Diplomacy in Addressing Crisis in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated that the primary concern of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) leadership remains the welfare and interests of the citizens of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. He emphasized that diplomacy and wisdom would be key to reintegrating these countries into the regional organization, despite the ongoing political challenges they face.
Speaking during a State Visit by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at the Presidential Villa, Tinubu, who currently serves as the Chairman of ECOWAS, expressed his concerns over the reluctance of the leadership in the three countries to present clear and defined transition plans. He underscored the need for these nations to outline specific timelines for their political transitions to democratic rule.
A statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, highlighted the President’s remarks. Tinubu explained that while ECOWAS remained firm in its commitment to ensuring constitutional governance in the region, it would not allow the suffering of innocent citizens to be exacerbated by punitive measures. He assured that, despite the uncertainty of the transition processes in the three countries, the focus would remain on the well-being of their people.
Tinubu emphasized, “Our relationship of mutual respect will continue as we reassess the situation in these countries. I can assure you that we will not tolerate unconstitutional governments. We will continue to lead by example, while remaining mindful of the innocent citizens who have been caught in the crossfire of these military-led regimes. We will not impose unnecessary hardships on the people who are not in power.”
The Nigerian President stressed that ECOWAS would maintain its commitment to free movement and trade within the region, despite the ongoing political uncertainties. He reiterated that the door for the return of democracy would remain open, signaling ECOWAS’s willingness to support peaceful transitions where possible. “This is the stance of ECOWAS. Regardless of the situation in these countries, we remain focused on the welfare of their citizens,” he said. “As ECOWAS Chairman, I will not personalize the issue. Our approach will always be one of collaboration and dialogue.”
In response, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier acknowledged the critical importance of regional cooperation, noting that the reintegration of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger into the ECOWAS fold would have far-reaching implications for both security and economic stability in West Africa. He expressed Germany’s support for ECOWAS’s diplomatic efforts, recognizing the complexity of the situation.
“We have discussed regional issues in our meeting with the President of the ECOWAS Commission. It is clear that the security and economic stability of the region are at stake. The decision to act diplomatically is essential, but it is equally important to have contingency plans in place for future economic cooperation,” President Steinmeier said. “The challenges you face are significant, but diplomacy must be at the forefront of efforts to reunite these countries with the region. At the same time, you must be prepared for any economic or security consequences that may arise.”
Both leaders emphasized the critical need for continued dialogue and collaboration, with President Tinubu reiterating ECOWAS’s commitment to finding peaceful solutions to the political crises in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, while safeguarding the interests of their populations. As the region navigates these turbulent times, ECOWAS is committed to using diplomatic means to facilitate transitions to democracy and ensure the stability of the West African region.
