Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, have expressed optimism that Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso will return to the fold of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), following renewed diplomatic engagements by the regional bloc.
Speaking at an international conference with the theme: “ECOWAS at 50”, held on Tuesday at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Lagos, the elder statesmen urged member countries to intensify efforts to reintegrate the Sahel nations, invoking the spirit of African unity and brotherhood.
The conference was hosted by the NIIA in collaboration with the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung.
On January 29, 2025, the three Sahel nations formally withdrew from ECOWAS after months of diplomatic impasse and their refusal to restore democratic rule.
Though ECOWAS recognised their withdrawal, it had offered a six-month grace period for reconsideration.
Gowon, a founding father of ECOWAS, described the exit as deeply regrettable but praised the regional bloc for keeping the door open for reconciliation.
“We had thought the era of countries leaving ECOWAS was over,” he said. “Unfortunately, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger decided to exit. Still, I do not lose hope. ECOWAS has lost three out of 15 members, but ECOWAS is still standing—even if slightly truncated.
“With ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at peaceful dialogue, I am confident we will succeed in wooing them back. Every action and every visit being made is a step toward their eventual return,” Gowon said.
In a symbolic gesture toward inclusivity, Gowon even proposed a name change for the bloc if it would help reabsorb the Sahel states.
“If what it takes is to add another ‘S’ to become ECOWASS—Economic Community of West African States and Sahel—then so be it,” he quipped.
He stressed that ECOWAS must remain committed to peace, security, and the well-being of its people, adding that the bloc’s continued willingness to work with the Sahel nations signals the value it places on regional harmony.
On his part, Akinyemi lauded Nigeria’s quiet diplomacy, particularly during a recent fuel crisis in Niger, where the Nigerian government reportedly sent 300 tankers of fuel to assist the neighbouring country.
“Nigeria didn’t grandstand. It acted quietly, helping a neighbour without making them lose face. That act of brotherhood paved the way for renewed engagement,” Akinyemi said.
He also noted the recent visit of Niger’s Foreign Minister to Nigeria as further evidence that ties are not completely severed.
“There is no doubt in my mind that these countries will return. They are embracing the African way of solving problems—dialogue, solidarity, and respect,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, German Consul General in Lagos, Mr. Weert Börner, cautioned African nations against becoming overly reliant on Russia for peace and development.
He urged ECOWAS to stay focused on addressing terrorism and enhancing intra-regional trade.
The Resident Representative of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, Marija Peran, called for deeper integration across the region, especially in economic governance, security, and sustainable development.
She lamented the persistent threats of political instability, insecurity, and cross-border crimes that continue to plague West Africa.
The NIIA Director-General, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, expressed confidence that ECOWAS would overcome its present challenges and emerge stronger within the next decade, citing the organisation’s historical resilience.
Other notable attendees included the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin; 2023 SDP presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo; former Foreign Minister, Major General Ike Nwachukwu (rtd.); Mrs. Erelu Dosumu-Abiola; NSCDC Commandant-General, Dr. Abubakar Audi; and scholars including Prof. Olawale Albert and Prof. Bola Akinterinwa.
@The PUNCH