Nigerian president, Bola Tinubu, who is also the chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has stated that the reigonal bloc would continue free movement and trade with Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso and would not punish “innocent citizens.”
Earlier, German President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, during a state visit to Abuja on Wednesday, emphasised the importance of ECOWAS’s diplomatic efforts in reintegrating Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger into the regional fold.
Speaking at the Presidential Villa, he noted that regional cooperation is vital for addressing economic and security challenges in West Africa.
“We will discuss bilateral and regional issues. We have already met with the President of the ECOWAS Commission. We understand the importance of regional cooperation, and as part of the European Union, we recognise the challenges,” Steinmeier said.
Tinubu, Chairman of ECOWAS, assured that the interest of citizens in the three countries remains paramount.
“Our relationship of mutual respect will continue as we reassess the situation in the three countries. What I can assure you is that we will not tolerate unconstitutional governments,” Tinubu said.
He added, “We will allow free movement and trade. Although the transition programme remains uncertain, we will not punish innocent citizens as they do not hold power.”
The President reaffirmed that ECOWAS would continue to lead by example and prioritise diplomacy. “This is what ECOWAS stands for. Whatever is happening in these countries, we remain mindful of the well-being of the citizens,” he said.
Steinmeier concluded, “It is not an easy task, but you must use diplomacy to maintain unity within the commission and the region.”