Mahama Updates Tinubu on ECOWAS Engagements with Sahel States
Former President John Mahama briefed President Bola Tinubu on ECOWAS discussions with Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, emphasizing the need for continued dialogue amid complex negotiations. Tinubu reinforced the importance of prioritizing the welfare of citizens affected by the military regimes, as the bloc navigates the transition period for its estranged members.
On Thursday, former President John Mahama provided an update to President Bola Tinubu regarding the ongoing discussions between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the military governments of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. He highlighted the complexities in these negotiations and emphasized the necessity for continued dialogue with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Mahama underscored his obligation to keep Tinubu informed as the current ECOWAS Chairman.
In his visit to the State House, Mahama expressed gratitude for the honor extended to him during his inauguration and shared insights from his discussions with leaders from the Sahelian countries. He stated, “As ECOWAS chairman, it’s my duty to come and brief him on some of the concerns raised there so that we continue to dialogue with those other countries.”
During the meeting, when queried about the current situation, Mahama acknowledged its complexity, remarking, “It’s a complicated situation, and it’s not as easy as we think. We just need to continue to dialogue and see how we can continue to dialogue together.”
President Tinubu reiterated the importance of ensuring that the well-being of innocent citizens remains a priority in efforts to mend relationships with estranged ECOWAS members. He stated, “The citizens must be the first beneficiary and the first point of reasoning together.”
Furthermore, President Tinubu praised Mahama’s contribution to bridging the gap between ECOWAS and the AES amid the approval of a six-month transition period for the withdrawal of the three countries from the organization. This decision allows for a period to resolve any financial and legal responsibilities owed to ECOWAS.
At the last ECOWAS ordinary session held in December, the bloc approved the extension of mandates for mediation leaders while emphasizing Nigeria’s commitment to seek diplomatic solutions to the political crises affecting Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. Tinubu affirmed that ECOWAS would prioritize citizens’ interests despite the military regimes’ hesitation in providing clear transition timelines, highlighting the enduring impact on the populations affected.
In conclusion, the dialogue between ECOWAS and the military governments of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso remains a complicated and ongoing process. Both President Mahama and President Tinubu emphasized the urgency of prioritizing the well-being of citizens during this transition period, asserting the importance of diplomacy and continued communication. The resolution aims to address the financial and legal obligations of the withdrawing states while fostering a cooperative regional atmosphere.
Original Source: punchng.com
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