Connect with us

FOREIGN NEWS

EU Urges ECOWAS To Learn From Brexit As Sahel States Exit Regional Bloc

Published

on

Abuja, Nigeria – The Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to learn from the Brexit experience in managing its relationship with the departing member states, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

These three countries recently withdrew from ECOWAS to join the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Advertisement

While expressing regret over the departure, Ambassador Mignot emphasized the EU’s strong support for West African integration, describing it as a path to prosperity and stability. He stated unequivocally that the EU does not support the fracturing of ECOWAS.

“Splitting doesn’t seem to us a good idea,” he said during a Monday media briefing in Abuja.

Advertisement

“We ourselves are probably the most autonomous model of regional integration in the world, and we think that this is a path to prosperity, to unity, to stability.”

Although acknowledging that the EU cannot dictate ECOWAS’s response, Ambassador Mignot offered the EU’s assistance, citing its experience with the UK’s departure from the European Union.

Advertisement

.He highlighted the importance of negotiation and dialogue in achieving a smooth exit and establishing a new working relationship, emphasizing that even after leaving a regional bloc, neighboring countries must find ways to coexist and cooperate.

Regarding the EU’s engagement with the AES member states, the ambassador confirmed the continuation of humanitarian aid and adapted development cooperation focused on supporting the population amidst the ongoing security and humanitarian crisis in the Sahel.

Advertisement

He noted ongoing work in Brussels to develop a renewed approach to the Sahel, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and regional partnerships.

Ambassador Mignot, who recently presented his credentials to President Bola Tinubu, shared his personal connection to Nigeria, recalling his first visit ten years ago which ignited his desire to work in the country.

Advertisement

He expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, highlighting Nigeria’s importance as a key player in Africa and the world.

Looking ahead, the ambassador outlined his plans to strengthen the EU-Nigeria partnership, aiming for a positive impact on the Nigerian population.

Advertisement

He stressed the EU’s commitment as a reliable and consistent partner for Nigeria, emphasizing the mutual benefit of this partnership.

The ambassador also highlighted the EU’s intention to develop a more structured economic relationship with Nigeria, including addressing obstacles to increased investment and trade, currently lacking a formal agreement or dialogue framework.

Advertisement

He mentioned the Global Gateway investment agenda, focusing on job creation for Nigerian youth, particularly in sectors like the green economy, digital technology, agri-food, and health. Special attention, he added, will be given to the specific needs of Northern Nigeria.

Advertisement

We are committed to providing high-quality news content on a wide range of topics, including the most recent economic and business updates, politics, entertainment, and compelling human interest stories.

Trending