By Gloria Ikibah
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has warned that the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) will have significant consequences for regional security, economic stability, and integration efforts.
The Minister in an interview, described the exit as a complex issue requiring careful diplomatic engagement to address the underlying concerns.
He emphasised that the sanctions imposed on the three countries were a collective decision made by ECOWAS heads of state and government.
Tuggar also highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions and restore cooperation with the departing nations.
He said: “Several delegations have been sent to these countries, and the presidents of Togo and Sierra Leone have been appointed as mediators to facilitate dialogue.
“Additionally, ECOWAS has lifted sanctions on these countries, paving the way for potential reconciliation”.
Tuggar also stressed that the exit poses serious security risks, especially as the region continues to battle terrorism and ongoing humanitarian crises.
“ECOWAS has established a 1650-man strong brigade to combat terrorism and offered financial assistance to support the affected countries in their fight against terrorism.
“The economic implications are also substantial, as these countries will no longer be part of the regional economic community, potentially limiting their access to markets and hindering economic growth.
“The withdrawal may also disrupt regional integration efforts, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“The African Union and other international organizations have expressed concerns about the potential impact on regional integration efforts and the stability of the continent”, he asserted.
The Minister reiterated the need for continued collaboration and cooperation to mitigate the challenges arising from this development.
“The regional bloc has also offered support to the affected countries to address their security concerns.
“We recognize the challenges faced by these countries, and we are committed to providing assistance to help them address their security concerns,” Amb. Tuggar stated.
According to him, the exit of these countries from ECOWAS has also raised concerns about the potential impact on regional health organizations; but he said that the door remains open for these countries to rejoin the regional bloc.
“The West African Health Organization (WAHO) is based in Burkina Faso, and its relocation could have significant implications for the region.
“We hope that they will take advantage of this opportunity to re-engage with their West African neighbors and work towards a more stable and prosperous future for all”, he added.
While reacting to uncertainty surrounding the future of the Alliance of Sahel States(AES) countries’ relationship with ECOWAS, Tuggar said with continued diplomacy, cooperation, and a commitment to the well-being of the people, it is possible to navigate these challenges and promote a more stable and prosperous West Africa.
“The region is at a critical juncture, and the decisions made in the coming months and years will have a lasting impact on the future of West Africa.
“As such, it is essential that leaders prioritize the needs and concerns of the people and work towards finding solutions that promote peace, stability, and prosperity.
“Ultimately, the future of the AES countries’ relationship with ECOWAS will depend on the ability of leaders to work together and find common ground.
“As President Tinubu emphasized, the door remains open for these countries to rejoin the regional bloc, and it is hoped that they will take advantage of this opportunity to re-engage with their West African neighbors”, the Minister noted.