President Bola Tinubu has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to speak with one voice in condemning the recent surge of Afro-phobic violence in South Africa. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 69th Ordinary Session in Lungi, Sierra Leone, Tinubu insisted that the regional bloc must bring this issue to the attention of the African Union to establish that such intolerance is intolerable.
Highlighting the historical sacrifices made by African nations for South Africa’s liberation, Tinubu noted that Nigeria has already successfully evacuated nearly 1,500 of its citizens. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to regional peace, democratic principles, and the rule of law. The President emphasized that the most potent defense against political instability is the delivery of tangible governance and a strict adherence to constitutional term limits.
During the session, Tinubu also confirmed Nigeria’s commitment to reinforcing the ECOWAS Standby Force and establishing a Counter-Terrorism Force to improve regional security and intelligence sharing. He praised Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio for his effective leadership during a period marked by significant security and economic challenges.
President Bio echoed these sentiments, noting that while ECOWAS Vision 2050 strives for a prosperous and integrated West Africa, the region must honestly evaluate its progress to navigate current global shifts. Omar Touray, the ECOWAS Commission President, and UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed both expressed strong support for these regional initiatives, underscoring the necessity of international cooperation in combating terrorism and strengthening democratic accountability.
