Former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, expressed pride in the vital role played by the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) in promoting regional peace during the turbulent 1990s.
Delivering a powerful address at the Republic Day lecture, he highlighted the organization’s significant efforts in restoring stability to conflict-ridden parts of West Africa.
“I am proud that Nigeria and Ghana were at the forefront of contributing troops to ECOMOG missions,” Obasanjo stated, emphasizing the vital role these nations played in stabilizing war-torn Liberia and other conflict-ridden areas in West Africa. “The creation and deployment of ECOMOG in 1990 marked a high point for ECOWAS regional peace and security initiatives.”
The former president reflected on ECOMOG’s legacy, noting how it became a symbol of successful peacekeeping efforts across the African continent.“In homes across the region, there was a deep connection with and appreciation of other West African nationals, due in large part to ECOMOG. Regional solidarity and confidence in our union reached unprecedented levels,” he stated.
Despite facing allegations of human rights abuses, ECOMOG troops were largely welcomed by civilians in conflict zones. “The achievements of ECOMOG have led some commentators to describe it as a model for the rest of the world,” Obasanjo noted, emphasizing the international recognition the initiative received.
Beyond peacekeeping, Obasanjo also addressed the broader goals of ECOWAS, particularly its strides in social and economic integration. He highlighted the importance of the ECOWAS passport and related protocols that enabled citizens to travel freely within the region. “These initiatives fostered economic integration and empowered our people to establish businesses without the obstacle of visa restrictions,” he said.
Still, he acknowledged the organization’s shortcomings with candor. “Maybe at this point, I should mention a failure for which I will partly take responsibility,” he admitted. “We agreed on a common currency, the Eco, but left its implementation entirely to the experts.”
Obasanjo’s reflections highlight both the achievements and the ongoing challenges ECOWAS has encountered in its quest for peace and regional integration in West Africa.
As the region looks ahead, his insights offer valuable guidance for policymakers striving to build on ECOMOG’s successes while learning from the shortcomings of past efforts.
