Tinubu says, “If we don’t do it, no one else will,” as ECOWAS deploys a standby force

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has stated that the ECOWAS is dedicated to restoring democracy in the Niger Republic.

This was one of Tinubu’s final remarks at Thursday’s second ECOWAS special summit in Abuja.

After the military junta ignored the ECOWAS deadline to reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum, the political standoff in the landlocked country was at the top of the agenda.

After much discussion, the bloc decided to send in reinforcements to help Niger get back on its constitutional feet.

Tinubu, the current chairwoman of ECOWAS, remarked, “We have exhibited great membership, dedication, and patriotism and have recognized the danger facing our dear neighbor, Niger.”

There is yet hope. The success of this conference shows how far working together and being united can get you. We are still dedicated to helping the people of Niger and advancing the ECOWAS region as a whole.

We’re going to keep going like that. You can be sure that the communique issued after this exceptional summit will make it clear to me that the use of force is considered a viable option.

Nothing will be done if we don’t do it ourselves. As before, we will continue to back Niger as it works to establish a peaceful, democratic government.

Despite the “undoubtedly have challenges,” Tinubu expressed optimism that the bloc’s unity would help “navigate these obstacles and chart a path towards lasting peace and prosperity for Nigerians and ECOWAS.”