Reconcile with Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso- Sanusi tells ECOWAS

Muhammadu Sanusi II, the Emir of Kano, has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to prioritize reconciliation with Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. Speaking at a public lecture in Abuja, Sanusi argued that the departure of these three nations significantly undermines regional integration, security cooperation, and economic prospects across West Africa.

Sanusi highlighted Niger's strategic importance as a buffer against extremist threats and noted Nigeria's historical reliance on cooperation with its neighbor. He recalled Niger's support during Nigeria's civil war, emphasizing that past leaders valued regional solidarity even under international pressure. The Emir suggested that diplomatic efforts and dialogue could have yielded quicker resolutions to the current crisis, attributing the deterioration of relations partly to mistakes made by key actors.

"An integration of 15 countries is better than one with 12 countries. The whole of Africa is better than just West Africa," Sanusi stated, advocating for a broader approach to regional cooperation. He acknowledged that ECOWAS could function without the three countries but stressed the loss of significant benefits derived from wider cooperation and larger markets.

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An integration of 15 countries is better than one with 12 countries. The whole of Africa is better than just West Africa

Drawing a parallel with Britain's exit from the European Union, Sanusi cautioned about the political and economic consequences of weakened integration. He pointed to the markets in Kano, which serve traders from neighboring countries, as evidence of the vital role of regional trade networks. Transforming neighboring countries into viable export markets through stable political relationships, he believes, would greatly benefit Nigeria.

Regarding the proposed ECO currency, Sanusi advised that ECOWAS member states must first achieve economic convergence. He stressed that pursuing a common regional currency should follow, not precede, the harmonization of economic policies and performance across the member states.

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I still think there is a great possibility for reconciliation. I am not pessimistic at all