In an Extraordinary Summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held in Abuja on Saturday, President Bola Tinubu, who currently chairs the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the organization, appealed for the suspension of economic sanctions imposed on Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea by ECOWAS.
President Tinubu, emphasizing the foundational principles of ECOWAS aimed at enhancing the welfare of the people in the region, expressed concerns that the sanctions intended to encourage dialogue had become counterproductive. He stressed the importance of unity and cooperation among member states for the collective betterment of the region.
The President reiterated ECOWAS’s commitment to security, social stability, democratic governance, political freedom, and sustainable economic development.
He clarified that the imposition of sanctions was not driven by animosity or ulterior motives but rather aimed at fostering positive change within the affected nations.
Drawing parallels to the approaching holy month of Ramadan and Lent, President Tinubu called for compassion, hope, and harmony, urging member states to extend a hand of friendship and support to those affected by the sanctions.
He proposed the indefinite suspension of economic sanctions and called for the unrestricted flow of humanitarian aid, including food and medicine, to the affected populations.
President Tinubu also highlighted the importance of cooperation in addressing shared challenges such as climate change, violent extremism, and the illegal exploitation of natural resources. He urged leaders of the affected nations to embrace dialogue and work together towards economic development and regional stability.
The President concluded by emphasizing the collective responsibility of ECOWAS leaders in shaping the region’s history and urged all parties to prioritize dialogue and cooperation for the greater good of the West African community.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President Media & Publicity disclosed the President’s statement on his social media handle on Saturday.
The disclosure was made shortly after the ECOWAS extraordinary submit at Abuja, Nigerian capital city.
