OneWestAfrica: Embracing Unity and Democracy for a Prosperous Future

By Aminu Bello

West Africa, a region rich in culture, history, and potential, stands at a crossroads. The growing tension between democratic governance championed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the rise of military juntas forming the Alliance of Sahel States (ASS) underscores the need for unity and cooperation. The vision of a united West Africa—one nation bound by shared heritage and aspirations—has never been more relevant or essential.

The emergence of the Alliance of Sahel States (ASS), comprising military-led governments in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, presents a complex dynamic. Their withdrawal from ECOWAS and the establishment of a confederation signal a shift towards isolationism, potentially undermining regional cohesion. This move has raised concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and the potential for increased instability in the Sahel region.

The Legacy of Division
The artificial borders that carve up West Africa were drawn not by its people but by colonial powers, fragmenting communities and fostering divisions that persist today. Yet, the cultural, linguistic, and economic ties among the region’s nations have always defied these lines.

The #OneWestAfrica movement seeks to rekindle this sense of oneness, advocating for a collective identity that transcends borders and emphasizes regional solidarity.
However, this vision faces challenges. The Alliance of Sahel States—comprising Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso—has positioned itself as a counterweight to ECOWAS, rejecting its policies and accusing it of neo-colonialism. While AES claims to defend sovereignty, its formation has coincided with a retreat from democratic principles, economic stagnation, and regional instability.

The Strength of Democracy
History shows that democracy is not just a political system; it is a foundation for progress and stability. Nations under democratic rule benefit from transparency, accountability, and the active participation of their citizens. Democracies are more likely to attract international investment, foster innovation, and ensure that governance reflects the will of the people.
In contrast, military juntas often lead to isolation, weakened institutions, and diminished freedoms. The recent coups in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have disrupted trade, strained relations with neighbors, and plunged these nations into economic uncertainty. These challenges highlight the urgent need to restore democratic norms as a means of unlocking the region’s potential.

Socio-Economic Impact of Military Rule
Historical and recent analyses indicate that military regimes often struggle to deliver sustained economic growth and social development. In the Sahel, the entrenchment of military juntas has coincided with economic challenges and allegations of human rights violations. The lack of democratic accountability can lead to governance deficits, deterring investment and exacerbating poverty.

The Role of ECOWAS
As the cornerstone of regional integration, ECOWAS has long championed democracy, peace, and economic cooperation. Under the leadership of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, ECOWAS has sought to address the crises in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso through dialogue and diplomacy. Tinubu’s approach balances firmness with compassion, prioritizing diplomatic solutions to ensure that innocent citizens do not suffer the consequences of political turmoil.
ECOWAS’s initiatives, such as free trade agreements and protocols on free movement, demonstrate the tangible benefits of regional cooperation. These policies have facilitated economic growth, strengthened security, and improved the lives of millions. However, the AES’s anti-ECOWAS rhetoric threatens to undermine these gains, perpetuating a narrative that portrays the bloc as a tool of foreign influence rather than an African-led institution dedicated to regional progress.

The Path Forward
The unity of West Africa lies not in division but in collaboration. The AES’s rejection of ECOWAS undermines the very principles of sovereignty and self-determination it claims to uphold. A united West Africa, bound by democratic values and regional cooperation, is better equipped to tackle shared challenges such as insecurity, climate change, and economic inequality.
The #OneWestAfrica campaign seeks to remind citizens of their shared destiny. By embracing their common identity and working together, West Africans can build a future that honors their heritage while paving the way for prosperity. Democratic governance, bolstered by the frameworks of ECOWAS, offers the best path to achieving this vision.

Conclusion
West Africa’s strength lies in its unity. As the region grapples with political and social upheaval, it must look beyond the artificial divisions of the past and embrace a collective identity rooted in shared values and aspirations. The call for #OneWestAfrica is not just a slogan—it is a rallying cry for a brighter, more united future.
Through democracy, cooperation, and solidarity, West Africa can overcome its challenges and reclaim its place as a beacon of hope and progress on the African continent.