Nigeria has conveyed its deep sadness in response to the recent 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).
The statement, issued Tuesday by Francisca Omayuli, the Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, underlined Nigeria’s commitment to ECOWAS’s mission of promoting peace, prosperity, and democracy in the West African region.
Having worked diligently for over half a century, ECOWAS has played a pivotal role in fostering regional cooperation.
Nigeria firmly stands with ECOWAS in emphasizing the significance of due process and the shared commitment to protect and strengthen the rights and welfare of all citizens in its member states.
“Nigeria, expressing sincere efforts and good faith, has sought to engage with all ECOWAS members to address existing challenges.
“However, it has become apparent that those opting to withdraw from the community lack the same commitment to good faith”, Omayuli said.
The statement highlighted concerns about unelected leaders publicly posturing to deny their citizens fundamental rights, such as freedom of movement, trade, and the ability to choose their leaders.
Despite the withdrawal, Nigeria extends an open invitation for continued engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
According to the statement, the aim is to ensure that all the people of the region can continue to benefit from the economic advantages and democratic values that ECOWAS advocates.
Nigeria further appealed to the international community to continue supporting ECOWAS and its vision of closer partnership, cooperation, and integration.
