AES Countries Face Significant Consequences After Leaving ECOWAS – Tuggar.

By Caroline Ameh

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has warned that the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) will have serious repercussions for regional security, economic stability, and integration efforts.

In an exclusive interview, Tuggar described the decision as a complex issue that requires diplomatic engagement to address the underlying concerns of the affected nations.

The minister clarified that the sanctions imposed on the three countries were a collective decision made by ECOWAS Heads of State and Government. However, he emphasized that President Bola Tinubu has been actively working to resolve the situation through diplomatic channels.

“Several delegations have been sent to these countries, and the presidents of Togo and Sierra Leone have been appointed as mediators to facilitate dialogue,” Tuggar stated.

He further revealed that ECOWAS has lifted sanctions on Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, opening the door for reconciliation and renewed engagement.

Tuggar expressed deep concern about the security impact of the withdrawal, particularly as the region continues to grapple with terrorism and humanitarian crises.

“ECOWAS has established a 1,650-man brigade to combat terrorism and has provided financial assistance to support the affected countries in their fight against insurgency,” he disclosed.

On the economic front, he warned that the exit of these countries from ECOWAS could limit their access to regional markets, slow economic growth, and disrupt trade agreements such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“The withdrawal may also hinder regional integration efforts, including key economic partnerships that benefit all member states,” he added.

Tuggar also raised concerns about the potential impact on regional institutions, particularly the West African Health Organization (WAHO), which is headquartered in Burkina Faso.

“The possible relocation of WAHO could have significant implications for healthcare programs and initiatives across the region,” he cautioned.

He further noted that the African Union (AU) and other international organizations have expressed concerns over how the withdrawal could affect regional stability and integration.

Despite these challenges, Tuggar reaffirmed ECOWAS’s willingness to engage in dialogue and reintegration efforts.

“The regional bloc has offered support to these countries to address their security concerns, and we hope they will seize this opportunity to re-engage with their West African neighbors,” he stated.

He stressed the need for continued diplomacy, cooperation, and a commitment to the well-being of the region’s people to navigate the crisis effectively.

“The region is at a critical juncture, and the decisions made in the coming months will have a lasting impact on West Africa’s future,” Tuggar said.

“As President Tinubu emphasized, the door remains open for these countries to return to ECOWAS, and we hope they will choose a path that promotes peace, stability, and prosperity for all.”

The uncertainty surrounding the future relationship between the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and ECOWAS remains a key issue. However, Tuggar remains hopeful that through diplomatic efforts, regional leaders can find common ground to ensure stability and economic growth in West Africa.

“The ultimate goal should be fostering unity, addressing security challenges, and building a prosperous future for all West Africans,” he concluded.