Politics
ABUJA, AFRICA, ALGERIA, ASIA, BURKINA FASO, CHINA, EC, ECONOMIC COMMUNITY OF WEST AFRICAN STATES, ECONOMIC INTEGRATION, ECOWAS, ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, GAMBIA, GHANA, GOWON, GUSAU INSTITUTE, IBRAHIM BABANGIDA, JOHN KUFUOR, KENYA, MALI, MILITARY COUP, NIGER, NIGERIA, OL, OLUSEGUN OBASANJO, REGIONAL COOPERATION, SENEGAL, SOUTH AFRICA, THE GAMBIA, WEST AFRICA, YAKUBU GOWON
Omar El-Sharif
Gowon Remains Hopeful for ECOWAS Despite Member State Exits
Yakubu Gowon, the last surviving founder of ECOWAS, remains optimistic about the organization’s future despite the withdrawals of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Speaking at a conference in Abuja, he emphasized dialogue and unity, advocating for engagement with the departing countries and inviting them to the upcoming 50th anniversary of ECOWAS.
Yakubu Gowon, the only remaining founding member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has expressed a positive outlook for the organization despite the recent exits of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. During a roundtable conference held in Abuja by the Gusau Institute, a think tank focused on research-led solutions for peace, security, and development, Gowon emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue among member states.
The event was attended by notable figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and ex-military leader Ibrahim Babangida, with Gowon being the only former leader present in-person at the hybrid session. Discussions involved representatives from Senegal, Algeria, Ghana, South Africa, The Gambia, and Kenya, addressing the challenges and opportunities that ECOWAS faces as it approaches its 50th anniversary this May.
Established on May 28, 1975, ECOWAS aims to foster economic integration in West Africa. While acknowledging the significance of the recent departures, Gowon cautioned against the imposition of force or sanctions, underscoring the necessity for unity and constructive engagement. He asserted, “ECOWAS is not dead” and suggested continuing communication with the former member states.
Furthermore, Gowon advocated for their invitation to the upcoming 50th-anniversary celebration, expressing hope for their eventual reintegration into the bloc. As Nigeria’s head of state from 1966 to 1975, he played a critical role in the establishment of ECOWAS, demonstrating his commitment to its enduring relevance and future prospects.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) was formed to enhance economic cooperation and integration among its member countries. In recent developments, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have announced their withdrawal from the regional bloc, raising concerns regarding the organization’s stability. This situation was the focal point of discussions at a recent roundtable conference, where leaders reflected on both the historical context and the future of ECOWAS as it nears a significant milestone in its operational history.
In summary, Yakubu Gowon’s hopeful perspective on ECOWAS’s future reflects a commitment to unity and dialogue, especially in light of recent challenges posed by the exit of key member states. His call for continued engagement and the invitation for the departing nations to attend the 50th anniversary exemplify a desire for reconciliation and progress within the bloc. The future of ECOWAS remains a critical issue as it seeks to navigate these complexities with resilience.
Original Source: www.thecable.ng
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