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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has once again highlighted ECOWAS’ dedication to the welfare of citizens in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Speaking on the bloc’s approach, he emphasized that a careful blend of diplomacy and prudent decision-making is crucial to reuniting these nations with their regional partners.
During a state visit by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu, in his capacity as ECOWAS Chairman, addressed the hurdles stemming from the unwillingness of certain nations to present clear timelines for their political transitions.
Tinubu’s remarks underscored the growing tension within the region, emphasizing the need for decisive action to guide these countries back to democratic governance.
“Our relationship of mutual respect will continue as we reappraise the situation in the three countries. What I can assure is that we will not give tolerance to unconstitutional government,” Tinubu said in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.
“We will continue to lead by example. We have innocent citizens who are victims of the military. We will continue to explore diplomatic channels to navigate without punishing the innocent people.
“We will continue to allow free movement and trade. Though the transition programme is not sure or certain, we will not punish the innocent citizens; they are not in possession of power,’’ he added.
President Bola Tinubu, addressing German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier during his visit to Abuja, reiterated ECOWAS’s stance on fostering democracy in politically unstable nations. Tinubu, who also serves as ECOWAS Chairman, emphasized the bloc’s commitment to citizen wellbeing above all else. “This is ECOWAS’s enduring mission,” he said. “While I avoid personalizing leadership roles, our door will always remain open to partnerships aimed at restoring stability.”
Highlighting the broader implications of disunity, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier emphasized the need to bring the three nations back into the fold. Speaking with concern, he pointed to the economic and security risks that their prolonged exclusion could inflict on the fragile balance in West Africa.
“For Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, there are serious security and economic consequences for not carrying on together. We understand why ECOWAS security members are insisting on diplomacy,” he said.
“It is not easy but you will need to use your diplomacy to keep the commission and the region together. While you are using diplomatic means to bring Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso to rethink their position, you should have emergency plans in place for future economic cooperation.’’
Both ECOWAS and Germany reaffirmed their dedication to restoring peace and driving progress in the region, with the discussions reflecting a strong partnership rooted in shared goals.