The federal government of Nigeria, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has expressed its readiness to engage in dialogue with the military governments in Mali,
Niger Republic, and Burkina Faso over the recent decision by the three countries to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), The Cable reports.
Recall that the military regimes of the three Sahel nations on Sunday, declared their decision to leave ECOWAS as a “sovereign decision,” effective “without delay.” a decision that has spread diplomatic shock waves across the region.
Amidst the development, the Nigerian government has expressed sadness but says the country remains open to talks with the three affected countries.
According to the statement issued on Tuesday by Francisca Omayuli, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria stands with ECOWAS in its resolve to promote peace, prosperity, and democracy in the West African sub-region.
“For half a century, ECOWAS has worked to promote peace, prosperity, and democracy in the region.
Nigeria stands with ECOWAS to emphasise due process and shared commitment to protect and strengthen the rights and welfare of all citizens of Member States”.
“Instead, unelected leaders engage in a public posturing to deny their people the sovereign right to make fundamental choices over their freedom of movement, freedom to trade, and freedom to choose their own leaders.
“Nigeria remains open for engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger so that all the people of the region can continue to enjoy the economic benefits and democratic values that ECOWAS embraces,” the statement read in part.
Nigeria’s Government had earlier expressed regret over the departure of the three countries.
In a statement released late Monday, Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry emphasized its commitment to due process and the rights and welfare of citizens in ECOWAS member states.
The statement criticized the actions of “unelected leaders” in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, accusing them of denying their citizens fundamental rights.
Despite these developments, Nigeria remains “open for engagement” with the departing countries and has called on the international community to continue supporting ECOWAS and its vision for regional partnership and integration.