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Tag: ECOWAS

  • Gowon remains optimistic about ECOWAS future

    Gowon remains optimistic about ECOWAS future

    The only surviving founding fathers of the Economic Community of West African States, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (retd) has expressed optimism about the survival of the regional body.

    ECOWAS, which was formed in 1975, will be 50 years this year.

    This is as the future of the regional body was at the front-burner at a roundtable conference in Abuja organised by Gusau Institute, a think tank that seeks, through research, to initiate programmes for the enhancement of peace, security and development.

    Gen. Gowon attended in-person, while the three other former heads of state namely, Olusegun Obasanjo, Ibrahim B. Babangida and John Kufuor participated virtually.

    The roundtable created a forum for high-level stakeholders to engage in dialogue, addressing these critical issues and exploring cooperative solutions.

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    Speaking at the occasion, Gowon reflected on the organisation’s history and current challenges as it approaches its 50th anniversary.

    The former military leader stressed the importance of dialogue and unity. He also advised against the use of force or sanctions against member-states.

    Gowon acknowledged the recent withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger but remains optimistic about ECOWAS’s future, stating that the organisation is not dead.

    He encouraged continued engagement with the departed members. He suggested inviting these countries to the 50th-anniversary celebration, hoping for their eventual return to the fold.

    Discussions, which followed the Chatham House Rule (which ensures anonymity of speakers) was applied to promote an atmosphere of open and candid dialogue. Forty-six participants were in attendance, including the four former heads of state.

    Dr. Mohammad Ibn Chambas and Ambassador Usman Sarki were co-Chairmen. There were speakers from Senegal, Algeria, Ghana, South Africa, The Gambia and Kenya. Also in attendance was a strong delegation from the ECOWAS Secretariat, led by Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security.

    The meeting focused on discussing challenges and opportunities within ECOWAS as it approaches its 50th anniversary, with participants emphasising the importance of unity, dialogue and regional integration.

  • ECOWAS-Abuja  Marathon  attracts heavyweights volunteers  

    ECOWAS-Abuja  Marathon  attracts heavyweights volunteers  

    As preparations intensify for the 2025 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon, key figures in the sports and fitness industry have expressed their eagerness to volunteer and contribute to the event’s success.

    The marathon slated for  March 1,  is part of activities to celebrate ECOWAS’ 50th  anniversary.

    With thousands of runners expected to participate in the 21-kilometre half marathon and the 5-kilometre race, volunteers will be crucial in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.

    Race Director Gabriel Okon  emphasized the significance of volunteers in an event that dedicated individuals to handle various logistical and operational aspects.

    “Marathon is not just about the runners; it’s about the team behind the scenes. Volunteers are the backbone of any successful race, from registration and logistics to hydration stations and medical support. Their role is invaluable in making the event smooth and enjoyable for everyone,” he said. 

    Application for volunteers opened Monday ( February 3) with interested applicants expected  to pick up a form at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) office at the  Moshood Abiola Stadium, Package A, Abuja.

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    Members of the sports family including athletes, coaches, fitness trainers, and others have pledged to support the event in different capacities, from technical assistance to race coordination and mentorship for young runners.

    Expressing his delight at the overwhelming response, Okon remarked, “The enthusiasm we are seeing from volunteers is inspiring. From retired directors in the ministry, elite athletes, to community fitness trainers, so many people are eager to be part of this celebration of unity and athleticism. This is more than just a race—it’s a movement that brings people together for a greater cause.” 

    Beyond the competition itself, the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon represents an opportunity to promote health, youth empowerment, and regional unity through sports.

    With over $71,000 in prize money up for grabs, the event is expected to attract elite runners while also encouraging participation from amateur fitness enthusiasts.

    Okon stressed that the marathon is not only about athleticism but also about making a lasting impact. “We want this marathon to leave a lasting legacy beyond race day. It’s about inspiring people to embrace fitness, fostering friendships across borders, and promoting a culture of healthy living,” he said. 

    Interested participants can register at www.ecowasabujamarathon.org or visit the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) offices, FCT Sports councils, and local athletics associations across Nigeria.

  • AES states seeking to reconnect with ECOWAS, says Dare

    AES states seeking to reconnect with ECOWAS, says Dare

    One or two of the three West African nations that recently withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are making efforts to reconnect with the regional bloc, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, has revealed.

    Speaking to journalists at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, Dare explained that these countries who have formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) are attempting to take advantage of the six-month window provided by ECOWAS to reconsider their decision before the official exit process is concluded.

    Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, the three military junta-led West African nations, which finally left ECOWAS membership at the expiration of six months window permitted by the regional body for the countries to reconsider their position on their plan to withdraw membership, left on account of their refusal to return to democratic ways.

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    “We know that the January 29 deadline has expired, and the process of their departure is almost concluded. But we also know for a fact that one or two of these countries are trying to reach back and take advantage of the six-month window,” he said.

    Dare emphasized that the upcoming African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, presents a strategic opportunity for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as Chairman of ECOWAS, to engage in high-level discussions on the matter.

    “At the AU Summit in Addis Ababa, the Chairman of ECOWAS will have an opportunity to brief the continental body, and of course, some of these countries will also be there. So, there will be a lot of high-level and bilateral meetings,” he noted.

  • Some withdrawn ECOWAS States seeking to reconnect — Presidency

    Some withdrawn ECOWAS States seeking to reconnect — Presidency

    One or two of the three West African nations that recently withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are making efforts to reconnect with the regional bloc, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, has claimed.

    Speaking to journalists at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, Dare explained that these countries are attempting to take advantage of the six-month window provided by ECOWAS to reconsider their decision before the official exit process is concluded.

    Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, the three military junta-led West African nations, which finally left ECOWAS membership at the expiration of six- month window permitted by the regional body to reconsider their position on their plan to withdraw membership, left on account of their refusal to return to democratic ways.

    “We know that the January 29 deadline has expired, and the process of their departure is almost concluded. But we also know for a fact that one or two of these countries are trying to reach back and take advantage of the six-month window,” he said.

    Dare emphasised that the upcoming African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, presents a strategic opportunity for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as Chairman of ECOWAS, to engage in high-level discussions on the matter.

    “At the AU Summit in Addis Ababa, the Chairman of ECOWAS will have an opportunity to brief the continental body, and of course, some of these countries will also be there. So, there will be a lot of high-level and bilateral meetings,” he noted.

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    Beyond ECOWAS affairs, Dare underscored the significance of President Tinubu’s presence at the 46th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council and the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of AU Heads of State and Government. 

    He described Nigeria as a key player in the AU, with President Tinubu wielding substantial influence in shaping continental policies.

    “The AU is the foremost continental body, and Nigeria plays a crucial role. Our President is a powerful voice within the AU and, as ECOWAS Chairman, has demonstrated strong leadership, particularly in managing regional security and diplomatic challenges,” he stated.

    Another major highlight of the AU Summit, according to Dare, is the anticipated appointment of a Nigerian as a Commissioner on the AU Peace and Security Council—a development he described as a key achievement of President Tinubu’s foreign policy initiatives.

    “The AU Peace and Security Commission is critical, and having a Nigerian on that body is a significant milestone. It is one of the gains of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s foreign policy efforts,” he said.

    Dare also highlighted the upcoming transition in leadership at the African Development Bank (AfDB), stressing that President Tinubu’s endorsement would be instrumental in determining the next president of the financial institution.

    “The AfDB presidency is a hotly contested position. A Nigerian currently holds it, and as he rounds off, another candidate will have to emerge. It will be difficult for anyone to get that position without Nigeria’s support and without President Tinubu’s endorsement,” he explained.

    Describing the AU Summit as Africa’s equivalent of the United Nations General Assembly, Dare emphasized its importance in shaping the continent’s future.

    “The AU meeting is always big—it’s like Africa’s UN General Assembly. Every September, world leaders converge in New York; in the same way, the AU Summit in Addis Ababa is a key diplomatic event. President Tinubu will be leading Nigeria’s delegation, and we expect a highly productive summit,” he concluded.

  • ECOWAS Court to launch enhanced electronic case management system

    ECOWAS Court to launch enhanced electronic case management system

    As part of the efforts to  transit to a fully digital case management platform, the ECOWAS Court of Justice has concluded arrangements to launch its enhanced Electronic Case Management System (ECMS).

    Already, the court has commenced a comprehensive Quality Assurance Workshop and Group Training for Judges and Staff, aimed at ensuring system readiness and user proficiency, a statement yesterday by the court said.

    These activities, the statement further said,  will culminate in a high-profile Go-Live Ceremony, marking the court’s transition to a fully digital case management platform.

    The statement revealed that a hands-on Quality Assurance Workshop scheduled for February 2-5, 2025 will bring together key stakeholders, including the Project Team, IT Unit, Super Users, and Management, to  validate the ECMS’s functionality and usability. The workshop will address potential gaps in system design, provide training on advanced features, and establish a framework for ongoing feedback and improvement.

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    This critical phase will significantly enhance the reliability and performance of the ECMS. It will facilitate the identification and resolution of any technical or procedural challenges, bolstering user confidence through comprehensive testing and validation. By ensuring alignment with the Court’s procedural and operational standards, this phase establishes a robust foundation for a smooth transition to the new system, the statement said.

    It added that, following the Quality Assurance Workshop, the focus shifts to equipping the Court’s judges and staff with the skills needed to effectively utilize the ECMS from February 9–13, 2025. This training programme will provide participants with practical knowledge on navigating the system for case filing, tracking, and management.

    It said the key objectives are to increase proficiency in using the ECMS for judicial and administrative tasks, enhance collaboration and efficiency in case resolution processes and Build confidence among users by showcasing the system’s benefits and usability.

  • Exit of B/Faso, Mali, Niger from ECOWAS poses threat, says Tuggar

    Exit of B/Faso, Mali, Niger from ECOWAS poses threat, says Tuggar

    Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar yesterday gave insight to the consequences of the exit of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger Republic from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

    He said the exit of the three nations would have far-reaching consequences on regional security, economic stability and integration efforts.

    The countries formally renounced their membership of ECOWAS to form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) on January 29.

    Expressing sadness at the turn of event, Tuggar stressed that their withdrawal required careful consideration and diplomatic efforts to address underlying concerns and prevent further instability in the region.

    According to him, ECOWAS heads of state collectively decided to impose sanctions on these countries, but President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is working tirelessly to resolve the situation.

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    The minister said: “Several delegations have been sent to these countries, while the presidents of Togo and Sierra Leone have been appointed as mediators to facilitate dialogue.

    “Additionally, ECOWAS has lifted sanctions on these nations, paving the way for potential reconciliation and future cooperation within the bloc.”

    Tuggar highlighted the security risks posed by their departure, as the region is already struggling with terrorism and a worsening humanitarian crisis.

    He noted that ECOWAS had established a 1,650-strong brigade to combat terrorism and provided financial aid to help affected countries strengthen security efforts.

    “The economic consequences are also significant, as these nations will no longer benefit from regional trade agreements, potentially hindering their economic growth,” Tuggar said.

  • Exit of B/Faso, Mali, Niger from ECOWAS poses threat, says Tuggar

    Exit of B/Faso, Mali, Niger from ECOWAS poses threat, says Tuggar

    Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar yesterday gave insight to the consequences of the exit of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger Republic from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

    He said the exit of the three nations would have far-reaching consequences on regional security, economic stability and integration efforts.

    The countries formally renounced their membership of ECOWAS to form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) on January 29.

    Expressing sadness at the turn of event, Tuggar stressed that their withdrawal required careful consideration and diplomatic efforts to address underlying concerns and prevent further instability in the region.

    Read Also: Reason for Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger exit from ECOWAS complex- Tuggar

    According to him, ECOWAS heads of state collectively decided to impose sanctions on these countries, but President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is working tirelessly to resolve the situation.

    The minister said: “Several delegations have been sent to these countries, while the presidents of Togo and Sierra Leone have been appointed as mediators to facilitate dialogue.

    “Additionally, ECOWAS has lifted sanctions on these nations, paving the way for potential reconciliation and future cooperation within the bloc.”

    Tuggar highlighted the security risks posed by their departure, as the region is already struggling with terrorism and a worsening humanitarian crisis.

    He noted that ECOWAS had established a 1,650-strong brigade to combat terrorism and provided financial aid to help affected countries strengthen security efforts.

    “The economic consequences are also significant, as these nations will no longer benefit from regional trade agreements, potentially hindering their economic growth,” Tuggar said.

  • NIS intercepts 21 minors at Niger border in Yobe

    NIS intercepts 21 minors at Niger border in Yobe

     The Yobe State Command  has confirmed the arrest and detention of 21 minors heading to Niger Republic.

    The Command Public Relation Officer Mohammed Abubakar Maina told The Nation in Damaturu the minors were being transported by one Abubakar Said who claimed to be the guardian of the children.

    He explained  the children were travelling from Niger State to Maine Sorowa in Niger Republic under the guise of seeking Islamic education.

    “One of the major problems we noticed after profiling them was the age range of the children. All the children are between the ages of 6-15 years. 

    “With that kind of age range, you cannot determine what is good or bad for you, let alone travelling to another country. Another  was that none of  them have any kind of travelling document like an  international passport or an ECOWAS passport to travel out of Nigeria,” Yerima added.

    At exactly when and where they were intercepted, Yerima said: “They were arrested on Tuesday this week at one of our control posts at Geidam town in Giedam local Government at the border of Nigeria and Niger Republic”.

    The command PRO informed the minors have been handed over to National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in company of Bukar Mai Madu, the Child Protection Officer at  the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Yobe State.

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    The Child Protection Officer for Yobe explained: “The minors are under investigation but after investigation all  of them will be  sent back to be reunited with their various  families.

    “So far, preliminary investigation has revealed that, the people from that axis, including Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi use to take children to that school in Niger where they register and pay”, Bukar added

    On whether the guardian and the drivers will be prosecuted, Bukar said “the only offence of the guardian and the driver was that they were  not carrying any form of document for traveling. What will happen is that the children can travel back to Niger with every necessary document but for now they will all have to be taken back to their families in Niger State”.

  • ECOWAS to determine modalities for engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger

    ECOWAS to determine modalities for engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger

    The authority of the Head of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) will determine the bloc’s modalities of engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali and the Republic of Niger.

    The three military-led West African nations have officially withdrawn from ECOWAS.

    “The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger from ECOWAS has become effective today, 29th January 2025,” the President of ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Touray, said at a media briefing yesterday.

    He said the next step would be the exit negotiations, which would involve ECOWAS and the three countries.

    For the meantime, ECOWAS said that passports and identity cards bearing its logo will remain valid for travel within the region for citizens from the three countries.

    He also said trade and economic activities will also proceed under the existing ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, allowing goods and services from the three countries to move freely.

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    He explained that “these arrangements will be in place until the full determination of the modalities of our future arrangements with the three countries by the ECOWAS authority of heads of state and government.

    “On January 29, 2025, the three AES states, Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger, formally ceased-to-be members of the Economic Community of the West African states.

    “This followed the notification the commission received from the three countries in January 2024 regarding their position and intention to withdraw from the community.

    “Article 91 of the revised Treaty of ECOWAS provides that when a member country intends to leave the community, they should give a one-year notice, and to give that one year, they have all the permission to withdraw their notification.

    “The notifications of the three countries that were communicated in January 2024 were not or have not been withdrawn.

    “As a result, the authority acknowledged during its summit on December 15, 2024, that the three countries will cease to be members of ECOWAS from today, the 29th of January 2025.

    “On the 13th of January 2025, I visited all the three countries, to communicate the position of the authority with respect to their notification.”

    He said the commission is prepared to commence the modalities for their exit from the bloc and future engagement.

    “We, as I have said, are putting in place structures that will allow for discussions,” he added.

  • Reason for Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger exit from ECOWAS complex- Tuggar

    Reason for Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger exit from ECOWAS complex- Tuggar

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has described as complex the reason for the exit of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States.

    Tiggar said the situation  demands careful consideration and diplomatic efforts to address the underlying concerns, stressing that the withdrawal will have far-reaching consequences for regional security, economy and integration efforts.

    He also noted that President Bola Tinubu has been working tirelessly to address the concerns of these countries through diplomatic channels.

    The Minister was also quick to remind all that the decision to impose sanctions on these countries was a collective one made by the ECOWAS heads of states and government. 

    He said: “Several delegations have been sent to these countries, and the presidents of Togo and Sierra Leone have been appointed as mediators to facilitate dialogue. 

    “Additionally, ECOWAS has lifted sanctions on these countries, paving the way for potential reconciliation.”

    Tuggar also said the security implications of this exit are a significant concern, as the region is already grappling with terrorism and humanitarian crises. 

    “ECOWAS has established a 1650-man strong brigade to combat terrorism and offered financial assistance to support the affected countries in their fight against terrorism.

    Read Also: ECOWAS Heads of State to determine modalities for engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger

    “The economic implications are also substantial, as these countries will no longer be part of the regional economic community, potentially limiting their access to markets and hindering economic growth.

    “The withdrawal may also disrupt regional integration efforts, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    “The African Union and other international organizations have expressed concerns about the potential impact on regional integration efforts and the stability of the continent. 

    The Minister emphasized the need for continued collaboration and cooperation to mitigate the challenges arising from this development.

    “The regional bloc has also offered support to the affected countries to address their security concerns.

    “We recognize the challenges faced by these countries, and we are committed to providing assistance to help them address their security concerns.”

    He also said the exit of these countries from ECOWAS has also raised concerns about the potential impact on regional health organizations. 

    “The West African Health Organization (WAHO) is based in Burkina Faso, and its relocation could have significant implications for the region.

    The Minister emphasised that the door remains open for these countries to rejoin the regional bloc. “We hope that they will take advantage of this opportunity to re-engage with their West African neighbors and work towards a more stable and prosperous future for all.” He said.

    While reacting to uncertainty surrounding the future of the Alliance of Sahel States(AES) countries’ relationship with ECOWAS, Tuggar said with continued diplomacy, cooperation, and a commitment to the well-being of the people, it is possible to navigate these challenges and promote a more stable and prosperous West Africa.

    “The region is at a critical juncture, and the decisions made in the coming months and years will have a lasting impact on the future of West Africa.”

    “As such, it is essential that leaders prioritize the needs and concerns of the people and work towards finding solutions that promote peace, stability, and prosperity.”

    “Ultimately, the future of the AES countries’ relationship with ECOWAS will depend on the ability of leaders to work together and find common ground.”

    “As President Tinubu emphasized, the door remains open for these countries to rejoin the regional bloc, and it is hoped that they will take advantage of this opportunity to re-engage with their West African neighbors,” he said.