Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Press Release
Published on 2024-02-24 16:41:44
President Bola Tinubu, during the Extra-ordinary Summit of ECOWAS in Abuja, urged for the suspension of economic sanctions imposed on Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea. The reasoning behind the call for the suspension was that the sanctions had failed to achieve their intended objective of persuading the countries towards democratic governance. As the Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS, President Tinubu emphasized the need to abandon ineffective measures that only serve to hurt without purpose.
President Tinubu highlighted the foundational principles of ECOWAS, which are aimed at improving the lives of people in the region through cooperation and unity among member states. He noted that the sanctions were initially intended to encourage dialogue and negotiation but had instead created obstacles to progress. The president emphasized that ECOWAS was founded on the belief that united action can lead to the achievement of common goals for the welfare of the people of West Africa.
The sanctions imposed on Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea had caused tensions within the region, leading to the withdrawal of the three countries from ECOWAS. These countries, which are currently under military rule, cited the sanctions as a major reason for their decision to exit the organization. President Tinubu’s call for the suspension of sanctions came at a critical time when the region is facing increasing instability and challenges.
In his address, President Tinubu called for compassion, hope, and harmony, drawing parallels to the holy month of Ramadan and the Lenten period. He stressed the importance of extending a hand to the countries affected by the sanctions, emphasizing the need for solidarity and unity in addressing common challenges such as climate change, extremism, and resource exploitation. The president urged his colleagues in ECOWAS to suspend the sanctions and work towards fostering greater cooperation within the region.
President Tinubu proposed practical steps to facilitate the flow of essential goods and services to the affected countries, while also emphasizing the need for dialogue and reconciliation. He called on the leadership of Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, and Niger to embrace the spirit of brotherly dialogue and to work together towards achieving economic development and regional stability. The president stressed the importance of setting aside differences and focusing on common goals for the benefit of all member states.
In conclusion, President Tinubu’s call for the suspension of sanctions on Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea reflects a commitment to promoting unity, cooperation, and dialogue within the ECOWAS region. By emphasizing the shared values and objectives of the organization, the president seeks to pave the way for constructive engagement and partnership among member states. It is hoped that his appeal will resonate with his colleagues and lead to a renewed effort to address the challenges facing the region through collective action and solidarity.
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