President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to firmly resist unconstitutional changes of government across the sub-region, warning that political instability poses a serious threat to collective security and development. President Tinubu made the call while addressing heads of state and government at the 68th Ordinary Summit of ECOWAS held in Abuja.
Speaking as both Nigeria’s President and Chairman of ECOWAS, Tinubu emphasized that the recent wave of military coups and unconstitutional power grabs in parts of West Africa undermines democratic institutions and weakens regional cooperation. He stressed that democracy remains the most reliable framework for ensuring peace, accountability, and sustainable development in the region.
The Nigerian leader noted that ECOWAS was founded on shared democratic values and economic integration, adding that abandoning constitutional order threatens to erode decades of regional progress. He urged member states to remain steadfast in defending democratic norms, even in the face of internal political and economic pressures.
Tinubu Warns of Rising Security Threats Across West Africa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu warned that West Africa is facing evolving and increasingly complex security threats that no single country can tackle alone. He pointed to terrorism, violent extremism, banditry, transnational crime, and illegal arms trafficking as challenges that demand urgent and coordinated regional responses.
According to Tinubu, unconstitutional changes of government often create power vacuums that embolden criminal networks and extremist groups. He explained that political instability weakens national institutions, distracts security forces, and provides fertile ground for insecurity to spread across borders, making regional collaboration more difficult.
The President called on ECOWAS leaders to strengthen intelligence sharing, joint military operations, and collective security frameworks. He stressed that unity among member states is not optional but essential if West Africa is to effectively confront the growing threats to peace and stability.
Push for Unity, Democracy, and Coordinated Regional Action
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu underscored the importance of unity and solidarity among ECOWAS member states, stating that fragmented approaches to governance and security will only worsen the region’s challenges. He urged leaders to place regional interest above narrow national or political considerations in addressing shared problems.
He reaffirmed ECOWAS’ commitment to constitutional governance, dialogue, and diplomatic engagement as tools for resolving political crises. Tinubu also emphasized the need to support countries experiencing political transitions through constructive engagement rather than isolation, while still maintaining firm opposition to unconstitutional actions.
Concluding his address, Tinubu called for renewed dedication to democratic principles and regional cooperation, describing them as the backbone of a secure and prosperous West Africa. He expressed confidence that through coordinated action, strong institutions, and respect for constitutional order, ECOWAS can overcome its current challenges and chart a more stable future for the region.
Table of Contents
Discover more from OGM News NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
