President Bola Tinubu, as the Chair of the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, has called upon the leaders of member countries to continue pursuing diplomatic solutions to the political turmoil in the Republic of Niger.
His remarks were delivered during the 2nd Extraordinary Summit on the Socio-Political Situation in Niger held in Abuja on Thursday.
Tinubu emphasized the importance of assessing the effectiveness of interventions undertaken and identifying any obstacles that may have impeded progress. He stressed,
“Only through this comprehensive assessment can we collectively chart a sustainable path toward lasting peace, stability, and prosperity in Niger.”
In his address, he reaffirmed the commitment to democracy, human rights, and the well-being of the Nigerien people. He underscored the necessity of prioritizing diplomatic negotiations and dialogue to reach a resolution.
“We must engage all parties involved, including the coup leaders, in earnest discussions to convince them to relinquish power and reinstate President Bazoum. It is our duty to exhaust all avenues of engagement to ensure a swift return to constitutional governance in Niger,” Tinubu asserted.
While urging the leaders to recognize the impact of the political crisis on Niger’s stability and the broader sub-region, he advocated adherence to democratic principles, good governance, and the rule of law to restore peace and prosperity.
Tinubu also regarded the summit as a momentous occasion to reinforce West Africa’s unity and resilience. “Let us seize this opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of our fellow Africans as we strive to build a future defined by peace, progress, and prosperity,” he remarked.
He commended the diplomatic envoys deployed to mediate in Niger, Libya, and other partner countries.
The summit attendees included Presidents Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco of Guinea Bissau, Everiste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, Alassane Ouattara of Cote d’Ivoire, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania, Nana Akofo-Ado of Ghana, Macky Sall of Senegal, and Patrice Talon of Benin Republic. Retired Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, Babagana Kingibe, and the Sultan of Sokoto, Abubakar Sa’ad III, were also present.
In response to the military coup in Niger, ECOWAS had implemented a no-flight zone over the country, aiming to curb the junta’s influence. Immediate financial sanctions were imposed, and the junta was given a week to relinquish power, with the possibility of a military intervention if necessary. ECOWAS maintained recognition of President Mohamed Bazoum and called upon member states and the international community to uphold these decisions to restore peace and stability.
Speaking at the emergency meeting, President Tinubu condemned the coup and asserted that Africa had reached a new level of maturity.
