President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday in Abuja, emphasized that the interests and welfare of the citizens of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger remain a priority for the leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
During a meeting with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at the Presidential Villa, Tinubu, who also chairs ECOWAS, assured that the regional body would prioritize diplomacy and wisdom in efforts to reintegrate the three countries into the ECOWAS fold.
Tinubu noted that the leadership of the three countries had been reluctant to present clear transition plans with definitive timelines.
Despite this, he stressed that ECOWAS would continue to lead by example, insisting on democratic processes while ensuring that innocent citizens, who are often the victims of military leadership, are not penalized.
He reaffirmed that ECOWAS would maintain free movement and trade, even if the transition to democracy remained uncertain.
He assured the German president that ECOWAS’ doors would remain open for the return of democracy in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. “We are mindful of the wellbeing of the citizens,” Tinubu said.
“ECOWAS will stand for collaboration and will not tolerate unconstitutional governments.”
German President Steinmeier, in his response, acknowledged the significant impact the reintegration of the three countries would have on both the economy and security of the West African region.
He praised ECOWAS’ diplomatic efforts and urged Tinubu to continue using diplomacy to address the challenges, while preparing emergency plans for future economic cooperation.
Steinmeier also emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and the need for a united approach to the security and stability of West Africa.
