ECOWAS Military Chiefs Meet in Abuja, Vow to Restore Democracy in Niger

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Defence chiefs of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are meeting in Abuja in furtherance of the decision of the the President Bola Tinubu-led Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member states to restore constitutional order in Niger Republic.

Countries attending the meeting include Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Sierra Leone, Cape Verde, Senegal and Liberia.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, said the military chiefs of the regional bloc were committed to the restoration of democratic rule in Niger Republic irrespective of the challenge ahead.

“The events that transpired in one of our countries on 26 July 2023 has reverberated across our borders, affecting us all. The recent coup d’etat in the Republic of Niger is one event that calls for our collective attention and a united response. 

“We must face the challenges of restoring democratic governance in Niger head-on, drawing on our shared experiences, wisdom, and collective resolve. Our decisions will have far-reaching implications for the ECOWAS region”, he said. Musa stated that “the strength of ECOWAS lies in unity, shared values, and commitment to democracy, peace, and prosperity. In this regard, we are tasked with a mission to restore democracy in the Republic of Niger and preserve germane humanitarian principles across the region. 

“Our decisions will inevitably shape the lives of millions of people around the sub-continent”, he said