The Vice President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, Damtien Tchintchibidja, has stated that the regional bloc is making significant efforts to persuade Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to rescind their decisions to exit the community.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja during an event celebrating ECOWAS’s 49th anniversary, Tchintchibidja described the efforts to retain the three countries as a “work in progress.” The event aimed to educate young students in Abuja about ECOWAS’s missions, achievements, and future vision.
“It’s still a work in progress,” Tchintchibidja remarked. “For us, it’s heartbreaking to know that three member states would like to exit from this community. We are stronger as a community. It’s like a family; you’re always stronger when the family is unified and united.”
She emphasized ongoing negotiations with the member states to ensure their continued participation in ECOWAS. “Even if they were to leave, they still remain our brothers and sisters. Our borders are porous, with families across them, and we are all one people,” she added.
The intention of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to leave ECOWAS was announced in January following a coup in Niger, which led to sanctions from the regional bloc. The military leaders of these countries viewed the sanctions as harsh and unbrotherly. Although ECOWAS lifted the sanctions in February, there has been no public indication that these countries are reconsidering their decision to exit.
