The UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Muhammed, has returned from a mission across West Africa, debriefing President Bola Tinubu on the pressing issues faced by the region.
Mohammed said this while briefing State House Correspondents on Friday after her meeting with the President.
She said her visit, which included stops in Senegal, Guinea Conakry, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Ethiopia, focused on regional instability, economic development, and the need for a return to democratic governance.
Amina Mohammed reported that countries experiencing unconstitutional changes in government feel unsupported by ECOWAS.
This perceived lack of backing has led to frustration and a call for more substantial engagement from the regional body.
The Deputy Secretary-General stressed that the UN does not negotiate on behalf of ECOWAS but supports its leadership in fostering dialogue and stability.
”Security remains a top priority for the affected countries. The fight against terrorism is paramount, as ongoing threats destabilize the region.”
Mohammed emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to enhance security measures and combat terrorism effectively.
Beyond security, Mohammed highlighted the urgent need for economic development.
She called for increased investments in food security and job creation, particularly for young people, adding that these steps are crucial to ensuring long-term stability and prosperity in the region.
”The UN’s message to the crisis-hit countries is clear: they must transition back to democratic governance. A roadmap to democracy, along with a focus on economic and social development, is essential for gaining international support and fostering regional integration”.
Amina Mohammed praised ECOWAS’s recent proposal to have President Macky Sall of Senegal and President Faure Gnassingbé of Togo continue dialogue with the affected countries.
This initiative aims to maintain engagement and support, promoting regional stability and cooperation.
The UN Deputy Secretary-General’s visit underscores the complex challenges facing West Africa and the need for a multifaceted approach to address security, governance, and development issues.
Bello Wakili
