Nigeria’s CDS Urges Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso to Stay in ECOWAS
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has urged Niger Republic, Burkina Faso, and Mali to reconsider their decision to exit the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Speaking at the 5th Lake Chad Governors’ Forum in Maiduguri, Borno State, Musa emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation in the region.
Musa Calls for Unity in ECOWAS Amid Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso Exit
Despite the three countries’ confirmed exit from ECOWAS, Musa called on them to remain part of the community, saying political differences should not lead to a division. “We must not allow political differences to divide us,” he stressed. “The strength of Africa lies in our unity and cooperation.”
Musa underscored the importance of regional collaboration to tackle shared challenges, including terrorism, insurgency, and climate change, which are essential for the prosperity of the region.
Nigeria’s Defence Chief Warns Against Political Divides in West Africa
Highlighting the critical need for regional cooperation, Musa noted that stability in the Lake Chad Basin, a region severely impacted by violent extremism and other security issues, depends on strong ties between ECOWAS member states. He called for continued support for the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), whose role in addressing cross-border security concerns he described as crucial.
CDS Christopher Musa Calls for Regional Cooperation at Lake Chad Forum
“We stand united in our mission to rebuild and stabilise the Lake Chad region,” Musa declared, emphasizing the importance of working together with all stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and development. He warned that political rifts should not jeopardize the progress made in the region, stressing that the stakes for the people of West Africa are too high.
The Defence Chief’s comments came at a pivotal moment, as regional cooperation remains vital to addressing the security and humanitarian crises in the Lake Chad Basin.
