ECOWAS stands firm, calls for dialogue, unity as Burkina, Mali, Niger signal withdrawal

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has urged Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to prioritize dialogue and reconciliation amid uncertainties arising from their decision to withdraw from the regional community. The call for diplomacy and unity comes as the organization emphasizes the need to address challenges collectively on a regional level.

Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister and Acting Chairman of the Mediation and Security Committee, expressed the additional challenge posed by the withdrawal of the three nations. Despite this, he emphasized the determination of other member countries to defend the values of the Community, stating, “We must take advantage of the dynamics created during this session and continue our efforts to encourage the member countries concerned to accept dialogue, in a spirit of understanding and reconciliation.”

Ambassador Tuggar highlighted the potential detrimental impact of the withdrawal on the citizens of Burkina, Mali, and Niger, stating that it could create great difficulties for their populations and undermine regional integration efforts.

The Council, addressing not only regional integration but also urgent issues related to terrorism, made a significant decision to activate the ECOWAS Standby Force to combat the existential threat of terrorism facing the community. Despite sanctions imposed on the withdrawing countries, ECOWAS continues to support their efforts in the fight against terrorism.

President of the Commission, H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, emphasized ECOWAS’ commitment to achieving the aspirations of its citizens for responsible and democratic governance. He noted the transition from an “ECOWAS of the States” to a “Peoples’ ECOWAS,” placing democratic governance and transparency at the forefront.

As the session concluded, ECOWAS reiterated its dedication to good governance, institutional strengthening, and the wellbeing of its citizens. The organization remains united in its pursuit of dialogue, reconciliation, and the fight against terrorism, embodying the spirit of cooperation and unity that defines ECOWAS.