The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States is expected to have implications for regional security, economic growth, and integration, according to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar as reported by 9jalead Official...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING.>>
Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso formalised their withdrawal from the regional bloc on Wednesday.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Tuggar, in an interview in Abuja on Wednesday, described the development as a complex issue that requires careful diplomatic engagement to address underlying concerns.
Tuggar explained that the decision to impose sanctions on the three countries was made collectively by ECOWAS Heads of State.
He noted that President Bola Tinubu had been making diplomatic efforts to engage with the affected nations, including sending delegations and appointing the presidents of Togo and Sierra Leone as mediators.
In a step towards reconciliation, ECOWAS has lifted sanctions, offering an opportunity for dialogue.
Tuggar noted, “Several delegations have been sent to these countries, and the presidents of Togo and Sierra Leone have been appointed as mediators to facilitate dialogue.
“Additionally, ECOWAS has lifted sanctions on these countries, paving the way for potential reconciliation.”
The minister noted that security concerns remain a major issue following the withdrawal.
The economic impact of the withdrawal is another concern, as the three nations will lose access to ECOWAS markets, which could slow economic growth and trade.
Tuggar pointed out that their departure may also affect broader regional integration initiatives, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area.
“ECOWAS has established a 1,650-man strong brigade to combat terrorism and offered financial assistance to support the affected countries in their fight against terrorism.
“The economic implications are also substantial, as these countries will no longer be part of the regional economic community, potentially limiting their access to markets and hindering economic growth.
“The withdrawal may also disrupt regional integration efforts, including the African Continental Free Trade Area.”
“The African Union and other international organisations have expressed concerns about the potential impact on regional integration efforts and the stability of the continent,” he explained.
International Organisations, including the African Union, have raised concerns about the potential disruption to cooperation and stability in West Africa.
There are also implications for regional health organisations, as the West African Health Organisations, which is based in Burkina Faso, may face challenges due to the exit.
Despite these developments, Tuggar emphasised that the regional bloc remains open to the three countries rejoining in the future.
He underscored the importance of continued diplomatic engagement, stressing that cooperation among West African nations is essential for peace, stability, and economic progress in the region.
“The regional bloc has also offered support to the affected countries to address their security concerns
“We recognise the challenges faced by these countries, and we are committed to providing assistance to help them address their security concerns.
“As President Tinubu emphasised, the door remains open for these countries to rejoin the regional bloc, and it is hoped that they will take advantage of this opportunity to re-engage with their West African neighbors.”
He expressed hope that leaders will find common ground to address the challenges and ensure a more secure and prosperous future for the region.
