General Yakubu Gowon has voiced confidence that the Sahel nations will rejoin the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The former head of state discloses this at an international conference, following renewed diplomatic engagements on Tuesday.
Gowon, with Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi urges member countries to step up efforts toward reuniting the Sahel nations. The nations namely Niger Mali and Burkina Faso formally withdrew from ECOWAS after months of refusing to restore democratic rule.
According to report, the regional body gave 6 months for reconciliation, following the nation’s withdrawal. Gowon, in his speech, described the exit as unfortunate but praised ECOWAS for allowing room for reconciliation.
According to him, he is confident because every action taken and visit made is a step towards the country’s return. The former head of state also proposed a name change for the bloc in a symbolic gesture for inclusivity.
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Gowon expressed that if adding an ‘S’ to form ECOWASS—Economic Community of West African States and Sahel—is needed, so be it. Gowon emphasizes that the regional body must remain obliged to peace, security and the well-being of its people.
He adds that persistent openness of the body to work with the nations is an importance of regional unity.
Nigeria’s Diplomatic Efforts Applauded as Sahel Embraces Peaceful Solutions
The former minister of foreign affairs, Akinyemi, at the conference, commended Nigeria’s quiet diplomacy, especially during the Niger fuel crisis.
According to report, 300 tankers of fuel were sent by the Nigerian government to assist the bordering country. Akinyemi, also notes the recent visit of Niger’s minister as evidence that ties are still intact between the two countries.
According to him, the Sahel nations are embracing dialogue, solidarity and respect as ways of solving problems. The Conference was hosted by the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), in collaboration with the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung.
