President Bola Tinubu has reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to resolving the political standoffs in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso through diplomatic means, ensuring that civilians are not unjustly affected by military actions. Tinubu, in his role as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State, emphasized the importance of prioritizing the well-being of citizens in these countries and using wisdom and diplomacy to facilitate their reintegration into the regional bloc.
During a meeting with the President of Germany, Tinubu emphasized the commitment to finding diplomatic solutions without punishing innocent civilians caught in the middle. He stressed the need for a transition plan with clear dates to avoid further strife for the people. Tinubu’s statements precede a crucial decision by ECOWAS heads of state regarding the situation in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.
Tinubu’s one-year tenure extension as ECOWAS Chairman saw him appointing mediators from Senegal and Togo to lead efforts in resolving the crisis in the aforementioned countries. Despite the challenges posed by military takeovers in these nations, ECOWAS remains focused on reintegrating them into the union. The President affirmed ECOWAS’s commitment to upholding democratic values and leaving the door open for the return of civilian rule in the affected countries.
In discussions with the German President, Tinubu highlighted the importance of mutual respect and collaboration in addressing the crises. The German President acknowledged the economic and security implications of the situation, emphasizing the need for both diplomatic and economic strategies to foster regional cooperation and stability. He urged ECOWAS to explore economic opportunities within the region while pursuing diplomatic resolutions with the three countries.