By: Manoah Kikekon
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| ECOWAS Country leaders |
President Bola Tinubu has commended the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for its efforts in restoring constitutional order and combating regional instability, despite recent military coups and the withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso from the bloc.
Speaking at ECOWAS’ 50th-anniversary event in Lagos, Tinubu who chairs the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government highlighted the bloc’s role in promoting democracy, counterterrorism, and financial crime prevention.
“ECOWAS has taken bold steps to uphold constitutional governance and fight instability,” Tinubu stated. “Through election monitoring, mediation, and institutions like the ECOWAS Parliament and Court of Justice, we reinforce democracy, accountability, and people-centered governance.”
However, his remarks have drawn criticism, with many questioning ECOWAS’ effectiveness after Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso all now under military rule exited the bloc earlier this year. The three nations formed the Alliance of Sahel States following ECOWAS’ suspension and threats of military intervention after Niger’s 2023 coup.
The departure of these key members has weakened regional cooperation, particularly in counterterrorism efforts. Security experts warn that the breakdown has led to a resurgence of terrorist attacks in Nigeria and neighboring countries, raising concerns over West Africa’s stability.
As ECOWAS navigates this crisis, Tinubu’s leadership faces scrutiny can the bloc recover from this historic rift, or will West Africa see further fragmentation?