Nigeria has expressed its strong disapproval of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger’s decision to leave the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas). The three countries were initially suspended from the regional bloc due to recent coups. In response, their military rulers have distanced themselves from France and fostered closer ties with Russia. They argue that Ecowas has failed to address the ongoing issues of jihadist violence in their territories, and believe that external powers have too much influence over the regional body’s decisions.
Niger experienced a suspected jihadist attack near the Mali border, resulting in the deaths of 22 individuals. This incident further highlights the security concerns faced by the countries that have withdrawn from Ecowas. The withdrawal will have severe implications, as Ecowas membership provides benefits such as visa-free travel and the right to work and settle in member countries. This move disheartens Nigeria, Ecowas’s largest member and Niger’s primary economic partner. Nigeria’s foreign ministry criticized the military leaders of the three countries for denying their citizens the right to make significant choices regarding freedom of movement, trade, and the selection of their leaders. Nigeria, however, expressed its willingness to continue engaging with the three nations.
Burkina Faso recently received 25,000 tonnes of wheat from Russia, marking the re-opening of the Russian embassy in the country. Russia, which has faced condemnation from Western nations for its actions in Ukraine, has been actively seeking new alliances in Africa and beyond. The scramble for political and economic influence on the African continent involves not only traditional actors like China, India, and Western nations, but also newer players like Turkey, Gulf states, and South Korea. This competition reflects the continent’s growing importance and potential for economic growth.
The departure of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from Ecowas signifies a strain in their relationships with the regional bloc. Recent coups in these countries have heightened tensions, prompting Ecowas to call for a return to civilian rule. While the three nations accuse Ecowas of being influenced by external powers, particularly France, Ecowas continues to emphasize the importance of democratic governance and civilian leadership. These events highlight the complex dynamics and power struggles within Ecowas and its member states.
Overall, Nigeria’s condemnation of the three countries’ departure from Ecowas underscores the challenges faced by the regional bloc in maintaining unity and addressing security concerns. The continued presence of jihadist violence in the region and the increasing involvement of external powers add further complexity to the situation. It remains to be seen how these developments will impact the future of Ecowas and the geopolitical landscape in West Africa.
