Mahama Urges Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger To Rejoin ECOWAS

President John Dramani Mahama has asked heads of Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso in a diplomatic and conciliatory way to reconsider their decisions and join the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) back in ways to build bridges of unity and solidarity.

President John Dramani Mahama arrived in Niamey, Niger, for a highly anticipated working and friendship visit.

The visit was warmly welcomed by Niger’s Transitional President, Brigadier General Abdourahamane Tiani which served as a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral ties between Ghana and Niger, as well as advancing broader regional dialogue in West Africa.

His diplomatic visit to Niger, as well as earlier stops in Mali and Burkina Faso, is part of his overarching strategy to address pressing regional security issues and foster enhanced cooperation between West African countries he was visiting.

President Mahama message in Niamey was to strengthen security, trade, and diplomatic relations with Niger with a particular emphasis on addressing the security challenges posed by the jihadist threat in the Sahel.

Mahama’s discussions with leaders in these countries also focused on finding common ground for cooperation in regional efforts to combat terrorism, improve economic opportunities, and enhance political stability importantly return to ECOWAS.

One of the central themes of President Mahama’s embarking on this mediation visit was his strong call for Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to re-engage with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

These three countries had withdrawn from the organization following political upheavals and coups, and Mahama has been outspoken about the importance of their return to ECOWAS to ensure the future stability and prosperity of the region.

President Mahama emphasized that the security and economic challenges facing the sub-region saying that such challenge can only be effectively addressed through unity.

In Mali, Mahama reiterated the importance of restoring ties with ECOWAS, emphasizing that re-engagement with the regional body would bring about greater collective security and economic benefits.

“West Africa needs unity now more than ever. Mali’s return to ECOWAS will help us address our shared challenges—together we can build a stronger, safer region” he stated.

A similar message was delivered to Burkina Faso, where Mahama urged the Transitional government to re-enter the fold of ECOWAS for the collective benefit of the region.

He stressed that despite the political and security challenges the country has faced, cooperation with ECOWAS would provide essential resources and support to help stabilize the nation and the wider Sahel region.

“Reintegration into ECOWAS will open doors for Burkina Faso to benefit from the regional economic initiatives and security collaborations that are vital for our shared future,” Mahama remarked.

In Niger, Mahama echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of maintaining strong ties with ECOWAS.

“A united West Africa is stronger and better equipped to face the challenges of our time,” he affirmed.