Tinubu: ECOWAS committed to upholding good governance, combating terrorism

President Bola Tinubu says the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is committed to upholding good governance and combating terrorism in the sub-region.

A statement by Ajuri Ngelale, presidential spokesperson, said Tinubu spoke on Thursday at a high-level meeting on peace and security at the forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing.

“ECOWAS remains deeply committed to upholding good governance, combating terrorism, providing humanitarian aid, and engaging in intensive peacekeeping, diplomacy, and mediation,” Ngelale quoted Tinubu as saying.

Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s role in the bloc’s approach to fostering peace and stability in West Africa.

The president said Nigeria ensures that it provides comprehensive support, including military intervention, diplomatic engagement, dialogue, negotiations, and mutually beneficial economic collaboration to member states.

“Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to peacebuilding has solidified its position as a cornerstone of regional stability,” Tinubu said.

“We will continue to strengthen our efforts to support a more secure and prosperous West Africa. I assure you.”

Tinubu commended China’s contributions to Africa’s development.

The president said it is important that the root causes of conflicts, such as poverty, inequality, and social injustice, are confronted, noting that true peace is not just the absence of war but the “presence of justice, equity, economic opportunity, and human security”.

Earlier, Chinese President Xi Jinping said the Asian country will support efforts to tighten security in Africa.