In a significant diplomatic engagement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has reiterated the regional bloc's dedication to upholding constitutional governance in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Hosting the President of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday, President Tinubu emphasized that wisdom and diplomacy would remain the cornerstone of ECOWAS' efforts to reintegrate the three nations into the community.
Addressing the reluctance of the military-led governments in these countries to establish clear transition programs, President Tinubu stated, "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."
While reaffirming ECOWAS’ commitment to the free movement of goods and people across borders, the Nigerian leader highlighted the need to shield innocent citizens from undue hardship. "We will continue to explore diplomatic channels to navigate without punishing the innocent people. They are not in possession of power," he asserted.
President Tinubu also reassured his German counterpart of ECOWAS' openness to collaboration and a steadfast focus on the welfare of the citizens affected by the political crises. “This is what ECOWAS will stand for. We will leave the door open for collaboration," he added.
German President Steinmeier commended ECOWAS' diplomatic approach, acknowledging the security and economic implications of instability in the three countries. "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 remarked.
He urged President Tinubu to couple diplomatic efforts with emergency economic cooperation plans, noting the importance of regional stability to both West Africa and the global community.
The meeting underscores the shared commitment of Nigeria and Germany to fostering peace and democracy in West Africa, highlighting President Tinubu’s pivotal role in steering ECOWAS toward solutions rooted in dialogue and mutual respect.
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