The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria has expressed deep sadness in response to the announcement by the Military authority in the Republic of Niger, revealing the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
This was contained in a statement released on Monday by the spokesperson Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Francisca K. Omayuli.
For the past fifty years, ECOWAS has been at the forefront of efforts to foster peace, prosperity, and democracy in the West African region. Nigeria, a key member of ECOWAS, stands firmly with the organization, emphasizing the importance of due process and a shared commitment to protect and strengthen the rights and welfare of citizens across member states.
The statement highlights Nigeria’s sincere and good-faith efforts to engage with all members of the ECOWAS family to address the challenges faced collectively. However, it is now evident that those seeking to exit the community are not reciprocating this goodwill. Instead, unelected leaders are engaging in public posturing, denying their people the sovereign right to make fundamental choices over freedom of movement, trade, and leadership selection.
Despite the disappointment, Nigeria remains open to constructive engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, aiming to ensure that all the people of the region can continue to enjoy the economic benefits and democratic values that ECOWAS embraces. The statement also appeals to the International Community to continue extending its support for ECOWAS and the vision of closer partnership, cooperation, and integration.
