Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has pledged that, if elected president in 2027, his administration would work toward restoring Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Atiku said strengthening regional cooperation would be crucial to addressing insecurity, economic challenges and political instability across West Africa. The three countries withdrew from ECOWAS after disagreements with the regional bloc, particularly over sanctions and its response to military takeovers in the countries. Atiku’s position reflects a broader argument that dialogue and diplomacy should play a stronger role in resolving tensions between ECOWAS and the affected countries. He maintained that Nigeria, as one of the region’s largest economies and a major member of ECOWAS, has an important responsibility to promote unity and stability within West Africa. According to the former vice president, rebuilding trust with Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso would require sustained diplomatic engagement and a willingness to address concerns raised by their governments. He also emphasized the importance of regional integration in promoting trade, security cooperation, free movement and economic development among West African nations. The pledge comes as political parties and presidential hopefuls begin positioning themselves ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. Atiku has continued to outline his foreign-policy priorities, with regional integration expected to remain an important component of his agenda. The proposal is likely to generate debate among political analysts and Nigerians over how the country should manage its relationships with neighbouring states and respond to the changing political landscape in West Africa.
