Niger coup: War not ideal for Nigeria’s economic reforms – Tinubu tells US Envoy

 

In the midst of escalating tension in the Niger Republic, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasized the adverse impact of war on Nigeria's ongoing economic reforms. The president's stance was conveyed by Aguri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, who disclosed the sentiment following a meeting between President Tinubu and Ambassador Molly Phee, the US Presidential Envoy and Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs.

In a strategic move, President Tinubu urged the United States to foster the growth of democracy within the West African sub-region by strengthening collaborations with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). He underscored ECOWAS' unwavering commitment to exploring all avenues to restore democracy in the Niger Republic.

"While we are actively engaged in peaceful diplomatic efforts to address the situation in Niger, we remain conscious of the potential economic ramifications of resorting to armed conflict. The region's stability is paramount to our ongoing economic reforms," President Tinubu emphasized.

He further highlighted the significance of defending democratic principles, asserting that safeguarding democracy transcends economic considerations. President Tinubu iterated ECOWAS' united stance, firmly committed to ensuring that no insincere attempts to buy time hinder the pursuit of democratic restoration.

The crisis in the Niger Republic emerged when a military junta seized power, disrupting the nation's democratic processes on July 26. As President Tinubu navigates the complexities of the situation, his dedication to a diplomatic resolution echoes the broader goal of preserving peace and stability while upholding democratic values in the region.