ECOWAS Must Address Political Crises in Member States, Says Tuggar

• Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar urged ECOWAS to prioritize political stability in member states, addressing governance challenges and military rule issues
• Tuggar emphasized that political stability is essential for sustainable development and regional integration, calling for collective efforts to strengthen governance frameworks

Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chair of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, has urged the regional bloc to prioritize political stability in its member states.

His remarks came during the 53rd Session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council at the Ministerial level, held in Abuja on Wednesday.

Tuggar stressed the importance of tackling governance challenges, transitions, and electoral issues in countries under military rule, including Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic.

“The agenda before us today underscores the pressing political challenges in member states, including governance deficits and disrupted transitions,” he stated.

“Political stability is crucial for sustainable development, peace, and regional integration. Without it, the aspirations of our people for prosperity will remain unmet.”

He called for intensified efforts to strengthen governance frameworks and support inclusive, peaceful political transitions.

Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, also reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to fundamental values and principles that promote peace and stability.

Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, currently under military rule following coups between 2020 and 2022, exited ECOWAS earlier this year.

The regional body initially imposed sanctions and considered military intervention to restore democratic rule, particularly in Niger. However, it later shifted to diplomatic engagements, despite resistance from the juntas.

Tuggar noted progress in operationalizing the ECOWAS Standby Force, which aims to address escalating threats like terrorism, violent extremism, and organized crime. He emphasized that these challenges require collective action and regional cooperation.

The session also reviewed reports on political, security, and humanitarian situations in the region. Discussions included establishing National Early Warning and Response Centres, with recommendations set to be deliberated during the 93rd Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers.

Final decisions will be ratified by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.