President Bola Tinubu has urged his Senegalese counterpart, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, to collaborate in persuading other West African countries to rejoin the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Recently, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, all under military regimes, announced their withdrawal from the regional body.
During a meeting with President Faye at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized the need for a unified purpose and structure in West Africa to effectively tackle the region’s issues.
Tinubu stressed the importance of regional cooperation to overcome challenges such as terrorism, banditry, human trafficking, and poverty.
He underscored that governance should focus on the people, as democracy loses its essence if citizens are not prioritized. Highlighting the sanctity of democratic governance, values, and constitutional order, Tinubu asserted that institutions like the judiciary and the rule of law must be upheld to sustain democracy.
He praised Senegal’s demonstration of constitutional democracy, expressing joy at Faye’s visit and noting the alignment with the aspirations of the youth.
Tinubu described the current period as critical for constitutional democracy in West Africa and commended Faye’s commitment to freedom.
Tinubu reflected on the brotherly relationship between Nigeria and Senegal, recounting their long history of cooperation and shared democratic interests. He expressed satisfaction with Senegal as an example of patience, perseverance, and dedication to democratic values.
Emphasizing the need to focus on the people’s welfare, Tinubu called for collaboration to bring back the countries that had left ECOWAS.
As the Chairman of ECOWAS, Tinubu invited Faye to help persuade the departed nations to return, emphasizing the importance of promoting democratic governance and economic growth.
He outlined the need to combat human trafficking, terrorism, banditry, and poverty, making these issues the focal point of their commitment.
President Faye, in his response, acknowledged the shared values and challenges between Nigeria and Senegal, emphasizing the longstanding good relations since the 1960s.
He called for the reactivation of the Nigeria-Senegal joint commission to strengthen bilateral relations in diplomacy, trade, and other areas.
Faye expressed confidence in Tinubu’s wisdom and experience to strengthen ECOWAS relations and advance the community’s goals.
He praised ECOWAS as a successful example of regional integration and committed to continuing this legacy. Faye expressed hope that with Tinubu’s leadership and their combined efforts, they could persuade the countries to return and share common democratic values.
Faye highlighted the importance of unity in facing common challenges such as human trafficking and migrant smuggling.
He expressed confidence that their combined resolve could lead to economic growth and fulfillment of their people’s aspirations.
