Nigerian President Bola Tinubu stated on Thursday that no option, including the use of force as a last resort, is off the table in resolving the Niger Republic problem.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Chairman made the remark during his concluding remarks at the bloc’s summit in Abuja.
“You will see from the communiqué of this extraordinary summit that no option is taken off the tables including the use of force as the last resort. If we don’t do it, no one else will do it for us. We remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting Niger towards peaceful and democratic stability in the country,” Tinubu said.
While there would be challenges ahead, the Nigerian leader thinks that with united will, ECOWAS will overcome all hurdles to long-term peace and development in Niger Republic and other member countries.
He commended leaders for their “unwavering commitment” to the sub-region and welfare of the African continent.
“The road ahead will undoubtedly have challenges but I firmly believe that with our collective resolve, we can navigate these obstacles and chart a part towards lasting peace and prosperity for Nigeriens and ECOWAS.
“I send my sincere gratitude to all of you for your dedication and valuable contributions during this extraordinary summit. Your unwavering commitment to ECOWAS and the welfare of our continent is highly commendable.
“I want to thank you for your positive remarks and recognition given to me and the government and the people of Nigeria. May our collective efforts pave the way for a brighter future for Nigeriens and all Africans,” he added.
The 15-nation group is battling military takeovers, which have now swept through four of its members in three years.
Their meeting happened four days after Niger’s coup leaders were given an ultimatum to reinstate the elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, who was imprisoned by guards on July 26.
The regime, however, ignored the deadline. The coup leaders demonstrated even more defiance on Thursday by forming a new government.
The civilian Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine will lead the 21-member government, which will include generals from the new military ruling council at the defense and interior ministries.
The prospect of military intervention in Niger, a fragile country that ranks among the poorest in the world, provoked debate within ECOWAS as well as concerns from neighboring Algeria and Russia.