Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed its concern over the pronouncement by the Military authority in the Republic of Niger indicating that the Republic of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger have withdrawn membership of their countries from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
A statement by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Francisca Omayuli says, for half a century, ECOWAS had worked to promote peace, prosperity and democracy in the region.
The statement highlighted, Nigeria’s stands with ECOWAS to emphasise due process and shared commitment to protect and strengthen the rights and welfare of all citizens of Member States.
Federal Government however accused the unelected leaders of denying their people the sovereign right to make fundamental choices over their freedom of movement, freedom to trade and freedom to choose their leaders.
Also, Nigeria expresses its desire to engage with Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger for all the people of the region to continue to enjoy the economic benefits and democratic values ECOWAS embraces.
Nigeria further appeals to the International Community to continue to extend its support for ECOWAS and the vision of closer partnership, cooperation and integration.
