From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has assured the German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, that wisdom and diplomacy will be deployment in reintegrating Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso back into the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
President Tinubu during the discussions emphasised that the welfare of the citizens in these nations remains a top priority for ECOWAS leaders.
He acknowledged the challenges posed by the military leadership in these countries, which has shown reluctance to establish clear transition programs following recent coups.
“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.
“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 certain, we will not punish the innocent citizens; they are not in possession of power,” he said.
President Tinubu told the German leader that the regional body would leave the door open for the return of democracy in the countries.
“This is what ECOWAS will stand for. Whatever is happening in the countries, we are mindful of the wellbeing of the citizens. I don’t want to personalize issues as ECOWAS Chairman. We will leave the door for collaboration,” he stated.
In response, President Steinmeier acknowledged the critical importance of reintegrating these countries for regional stability.
He urged Tinubu to maintain diplomatic pressure while preparing emergency plans for future economic cooperation.
Steinmeier noted that ongoing tensions between ECOWAS and the military governments could have dire consequences.
“We will talk bilateral and regional issues. We just had a meeting with the President of the ECOWAS Commission. We know how important it is to have regional cooperation. We are part of the European Union.
“For Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, there are serious security and economic consequences for not carrying on together. We understand why ECOWAS security members are insisting on diplomacy.
“It is not easy but you will need to use your diplomacy to keep the commission and the region together. “While you are using diplomatic means to bring Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso to rethink their position, you should have emergency plans in place for future economic cooperation,” the German leader said.