In response to the unexpected withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Nigerian government expresses readiness for diplomatic talks.
The federal government of Nigeria has voiced its concern over the recent decision by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso to withdraw from the ECOWAS bloc, a move that has sent diplomatic shock waves throughout the region. Despite expressing sadness at this development, Nigeria remains open to engaging in dialogue with the three affected countries.
In a statement released on Monday by Francisca Omayuli, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to ECOWAS’s mission of promoting 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 emphasize due process and shared commitment to protect and strengthen the rights and welfare of all citizens of Member States,” the statement read.
The Nigerian government, expressing genuine efforts to address concerns within the ECOWAS family, highlights the importance of upholding the principles of freedom of movement, trade, and the ability to choose leaders democratically. The statement emphasizes that Nigeria is open to engaging in discussions with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, aiming to ensure that the region’s people continue to benefit from the economic advantages and democratic values that ECOWAS upholds.
