Ecowas Open To Mali, Niger, Burkina Fasos Return, Tinubu Tells German President

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed ECOWAS commitment to the welfare of citizens in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, emphasising that wisdom and diplomacy are essential to reintegrating the nations into the regional bloc.

Speaking on Wednesday during a state visit by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Tinubu, who serves as ECOWAS Chairman, highlighted the challenges posed by the reluctance of the affected countries to establish clear transition plans.

Our relationship of mutual respect will continue as we reappraise the situation in the three countries. What I can assure is that we will not give tolerance to unconstitutional government, Tinubu said in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.

We will continue to lead by example. We have innocent citizens who are victims of the military. We will continue to explore diplomatic channels to navigate without punishing the innocent people.

We will continue to allow free movement and trade. Though the transition programme is not sure or certain, we will not punish the innocent citizens they are not in possession of power, he added.