Nigeria has criticized Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger for their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), accusing them of letting their people down.
This marks the first response from the chair of the economic and political body following the announcement of the three countries’ decision to leave, which came after their suspension from Ecowas due to recent coups.
The military rulers of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have distanced themselves from France and strengthened ties with Russia, forming a mutual defense pact called the Alliance of Sahel States in September.
They argue that Ecowas has failed to assist them in addressing jihadist violence and accuse the organization of being influenced by external powers.
Despite the withdrawal, the move will have significant ramifications as Ecowas guarantees visa-free travel and the right of settlement and work among member countries.
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger were founding members of Ecowas nearly 50 years ago.
Tensions between the three countries and Ecowas heightened following coups in Niger in July, Burkina Faso in 2022, and Mali in 2020.
Ecowas had called for the restoration of civilian rule in all three nations.
Nigeria’s foreign ministry criticized the military leaders of the departing countries for denying their people the right to make fundamental choices.
It expressed willingness to engage with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, emphasizing Nigeria’s significant role as the largest member of Ecowas and Niger’s main economic partner.
Burkina Faso’s recent receipt of free wheat from Russia, along with the reopening of the Russian embassy there, underscores Russia’s efforts to forge new alliances in Africa amid condemnation for its actions in Ukraine.
This aligns with broader international trends, with various global powers, including China, India, Turkey, the Gulf states, South Korea, Western nations, and Japan, seeking to enhance their political and economic influence in Africa.
Source-BBC
