…Says Military Coup No Reason to Isolate Niger Republic
By Abdullahi Inuwa
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for a fresh diplomatic approach towards Niger Republic, Mali and Burkina Faso, arguing that Nigeria’s historical, cultural and economic ties with the three countries should not be sacrificed because of military takeovers.
Atiku, in a statement, questioned the rationale behind Nigeria distancing itself from Niger Republic following the military coup, stressing that the people of both countries share deep-rooted bonds that transcend political changes.
“I see no reason why Nigeria should cut ties with Niger Republic simply because of a military coup. What does the coup have to do with us?” he said.
The former vice president maintained that isolating Niger would do little to advance Nigeria’s interests, insisting that dialogue and engagement should take precedence over confrontation.
According to him, Nigeria and Niger are “closely connected peoples,” making sustained cooperation essential for regional stability, trade and economic development.
Atiku further pledged to work towards rebuilding confidence between Nigeria and the three Sahel countries currently outside the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“I will work to rebuild trust and understanding with Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali and support their return to ECOWAS,” he stated.
He argued that restoring the countries’ participation in ECOWAS would strengthen regional integration and open new economic opportunities across West Africa.
Atiku said closer cooperation would boost cross-border trade, deepen economic ties and create more opportunities for young people, particularly in a region grappling with unemployment, insecurity and economic hardship.
His position comes amid continued concerns over the widening political and diplomatic gap between ECOWAS and the military-led governments of Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, which have increasingly pursued a separate regional path.
Atiku’s call therefore places renewed emphasis on diplomacy, dialogue and economic integration as possible tools for repairing relations between ECOWAS and the three Sahel nations.
For him, the future of West Africa depends not on isolation, but on rebuilding trust and keeping the region economically and politically connected.
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