President Bola Tinubu revealed that ECOWAS is employing discreet diplomatic approaches to prevent violence in Niger. He made this announcement during a meeting with France’s Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Catherine Colonna, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
President Tinubu emphasized ECOWAS’ commitment to avoiding bloodshed in Niger while considering diplomatic interventions. He expressed his responsibility in safeguarding the detained President Mohamed Bazoum, who was ousted on July 26, and highlighted Nigeria’s vigilance in monitoring the situation in the neighboring nation, using diplomatic means to avert violence.
Tinubu stated, “I am deploying all appropriate back-channel strategies to avoid bloodshed in the Niger Republic. We recognize the wishes of our people; they do not want war, but that does not mean we cannot take bold and decisive action.”
The French minister commended President Tinubu’s leadership within the regional bloc and expressed France’s support for ECOWAS and its commitment to upholding constitutional order and democracy. She also extended an invitation to President Bola Tinubu to attend the upcoming Paris Peace Forum.
