In a recent statement, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who is also the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), assured that the regional bloc would continue free trade with Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
He emphasized, however, that while ECOWAS will not punish innocent citizens, it would not tolerate undemocratic governments in the region.
During a meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday, Tinubu reaffirmed ECOWAS’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in West Africa, even as political unrest continues in the three countries.
Tinubu’s comments came after German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited Nigeria, underscoring the importance of ECOWAS’s efforts to reintegrate Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger back into the regional community.
“We will allow free movement and trade. Although the transition programme remains uncertain, we will not punish innocent citizens as they do not hold power,” Tinubu declared.
He made it clear that the bloc’s primary focus is the well-being of the citizens in the affected countries, noting that ECOWAS’s approach remains one of diplomacy and mutual respect.
“We are mindful of the well-being of the citizens. ECOWAS will continue to lead by example, prioritizing diplomacy in the face of challenges,” Tinubu emphasized.
President Steinmeier, in his remarks, acknowledged the importance of regional cooperation to address economic and security challenges in West Africa.
“We understand the importance of regional cooperation, and as part of the European Union, we recognize the challenges,” he said. Steinmeier also stressed that diplomacy is key to maintaining unity within ECOWAS and the wider West African region.
The relationship between ECOWAS and the countries of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso has been strained due to political turmoil. Both Mali and Burkina Faso have experienced military coups, while Niger faces political instability. These developments have led to ECOWAS imposing sanctions in an attempt to restore democratic governance.
However, Tinubu made it clear that ECOWAS will not punish the innocent citizens of these nations, emphasizing the importance of continuing trade and movement across borders.
“ECOWAS stands for the interest of citizens, not punishing those who have no role in the current situation,” Tinubu added.
The Nigerian President also confirmed that the regional body’s diplomatic efforts would continue, even though the situation in these three countries remains volatile.
Tinubu’s comments highlight a delicate balance that ECOWAS is trying to strike. The bloc is focused on upholding democratic values and ensuring that undemocratic regimes do not thrive in West Africa. At the same time, it recognizes the need for compassion and continued cooperation with the people of these nations.
“ECOWAS has always stood for diplomacy and respect for the people. We will not deviate from this path,” Tinubu reassured.
Steinmeier’s visit to Abuja further solidified the EU’s support for ECOWAS’s efforts in managing the political crises in the region. The German president praised Nigeria’s leadership within ECOWAS and reiterated that Europe stands with the bloc in its pursuit of stability and peace in West Africa.
“It is not an easy task, but you must use diplomacy to maintain unity within the commission and the region,” Steinmeier concluded.
Tinubu’s remarks have drawn attention to the challenges facing West Africa, as ECOWAS navigates its response to the political shifts in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. While the bloc stands firm on its opposition to unconstitutional governments, it also emphasizes the importance of keeping borders open and supporting the region’s economic recovery.
