Nigerian President Tinubu urges ECOWAS to dialogue on military action in Niger

In the midst of growing tensions in West Africa, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, leading the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), is advocating for dialogue rather than military intervention against Niger’s current junta.

Recent reports suggest that some ECOWAS nations were considering military contributions.

Responding to these developments, Tinubu stated, “I’ve received numerous calls regarding preparations of ECOWAS countries and their military intentions. I’ve asked them to wait.”

Emphasizing the importance of dialogue, President Tinubu has initiated meetings with renowned Muslim clerics to communicate with Niger’s junta, urging them to relinquish power.

Previous endeavors, including a trip to Niger on the 19th, led to the junta agreeing to meet with an ECOWAS delegation headed by Nigeria’s former Defense Chief, Abdulsalami Abubakar.

Since July 30th, the possibility of regional military intervention has been discussed among ECOWAS leaders.

However, their consistent message has been a preference for dialogue to resolve the crisis.

Ignoring the potential threats, the junta in Niger has been proactive, introducing a new Prime Minister and creating a transitional government.

They’ve also sent strong signals, warning of an “instant” and “forceful” response to any military intervention.

Regional opinions on potential military actions are divided.

While Nigeria, Benin, Ivory Coast, and Senegal have shown readiness to intervene, neighboring countries like Mali and Burkina Faso, governed by their military juntas, see such actions as equivalent to a war declaration against them.

Chad, Guinea-Conakri, Algeria, and Cape Verde have also preferred dialogue over intervention.

The recent coup in Niger, led by the so-called National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) on July 26th, resulted in the ousting of the president and suspension of the constitution.

The coup leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, proposed a political transition lasting up to three years, which ECOWAS has termed “unacceptable.”