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Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, have expressed optimism that Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso will return to the Economic Community of West African States following renewed diplomatic efforts by the regional bloc.
Speaking at an international conference titled “ECOWAS at 50” held on Tuesday at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Lagos, the elder statesmen urged member countries to strengthen efforts to bring back the Sahel nations, emphasising African unity and brotherhood.
The Nigerian Institute of International Affairs hosted the conference in partnership with the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung.
On January 29, 2025, the three Sahel countries officially withdrew from ECOWAS after months of diplomatic tensions and their refusal to restore democratic governance.
Although ECOWAS accepted their withdrawal, it offered a six-month period for them to reconsider.
Gowon, who helped found ECOWAS, called the exit deeply unfortunate but praised the regional organisation for maintaining open channels for reconciliation.
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“We had thought the era of countries leaving ECOWAS was over,” he said. “Unfortunately, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger decided to exit. Still, I do not lose hope. ECOWAS has lost three out of 15 members, but ECOWAS is still standing—even if slightly truncated.
“With ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at peaceful dialogue, I am confident we will succeed in wooing them back. Every action and every visit being made is a step toward their eventual return,” Gowon said.
In a goodwill gesture toward inclusivity, Gowon even suggested changing the organisation’s name if it would help bring back the Sahel states.
“If what it takes is to add another ‘S’ to become ECOWASS—Economic Community of West African States and Sahel—then so be it,” he quipped.
He emphasised that ECOWAS must continue focusing on peace, security, and citizens’ welfare, adding that the bloc’s willingness to work with the Sahel nations shows its commitment to regional harmony.
Akinyemi praised Nigeria’s quiet diplomacy, particularly during a recent fuel shortage in Niger, when the Nigerian government reportedly sent 300 fuel tankers to help the neighboring country.
“Nigeria didn’t grandstand. It acted quietly, helping a neighbour without making them lose face. That act of brotherhood paved the way for renewed engagement,” Akinyemi said.
He also pointed to the recent visit of Niger’s Foreign Minister to Nigeria as evidence that relationships remain active.
“There is no doubt in my mind that these countries will return. They are embracing the African way of solving problems—dialogue, solidarity, and respect,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, German Consul General in Lagos, Mr. Weert Börner, warned African nations against becoming too dependent on Russia for security and development.
He encouraged ECOWAS to maintain focus on fighting terrorism and improving trade within the region.
The Resident Representative of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, Marija Peran, called for stronger integration across the region, especially in economic governance, security, and sustainable development.
She expressed concern about ongoing political instability, insecurity, and cross-border crime affecting West Africa.
The NIIA Director-General, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, expressed confidence that ECOWAS would overcome its current challenges and grow stronger in the next decade, noting the organisation’s history of resilience.
Other notable attendees included the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin; 2023 SDP presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo; former Foreign Minister, Maj. Gen. Ike Nwachukwu (retd.); Mrs. Erelu Dosumu-Abiola; NSCDC Commandant-General, Dr. Abubakar Audi; and scholars including Prof. Olawale Albert and Prof. Bola Akinterinwa.
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