Ecowas at 50: Amb. Tugar says that the revaluation by the celebration of our shared vision

Ecowas at 50: Amb. Tuggar states that the revaluation of the celebration of our shared vision

By Raphael Ekpang

Abuja (basic reporter) The honorable Minister of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, said that the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of States of West Africa (Ecowas) is not only a celebration, but a revaluation of our shared vision. By affirming that Nigeria is not just a member of Ecowas- “We are modeling its future”.

Amb. Tuggar made it known on Monday 26 May 2025 in Abuja during a world press conference that announces the event scheduled for May 28 in Lagos, Nigeria.

However, Tuggar declared the installation of Nigeria for the regional unit, economic integration and diplomatic restoration, despite the blockage that navigates in the challenges of military led departures by the key member states.

He described the next anniversary both as a moment of reflection and as a renewed invitation to action for the future of the region.

“This is not just a celebration: it is a revaluation of our shared vision,” said Tuggar. “Nigeria is not just a founding member of Ecowas; we are giving shape to its future.”

Ambassador Tuggar highlighted Nigeria’s leadership in ambitious cross-border infrastructure projects, including the commercial corridors of Abidjan-Lagos and Abidjan-Dakar, and the proposal of 15 nations gas pipeline that should extend to Morocco and Europe. These, he said, are testaments in the longtime commitment of Nigeria for the integration of West Africa.

The fundamental role of Nigeria has also praised in the standardization of regional policies in sectors such as energy, health and water, describing the withdrawal of the ECOWAS-A self-sufficient financial mechanism started with the influence of Nigeria-like “silent revolution” in regional self-financing.

On Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso pulled out, Amb. Tugar said that Ecowas did his best to give the three countries the opportunity to remain in the community.

When it is pressed why the regional block is enthusiastic about moving its structures from Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali, he said: “This is what the countries have entered for. If you are a member, then you have the right to host. If you go, then unfortunately they have to move to other places.

“The health organizations of West Africa, for example, must leave Burkina Faso, and there is also a warm competition between the Member States to host. Unfortunately are the rules and regulations to which everyone has signed.

“But this does not mean that we do not hope that those countries will return to the fold of EcoWas.

While siding in the terraced of journalists on the increase in hosiciness and traffic of weapons in the region, the minister has noticed that much of the proliferation dates back to the collapse of Libya, which created a dangerous emptiness. However, he assured the public that Ecowas is taking active measures to curb these trends through the establishment of a regional standby force, with a strong support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“We are not folding our arms. Ecowas is implementing collaborative security measures and Nigeria is playing a leading role,” he concluded.