Abuja, October 12, 2023 – Spain has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in its mission to uphold democracy in member states. This announcement comes amidst ongoing challenges in the region, including political upheavals and military takeovers.
Spain’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Juan Sell, made this declaration during the National Day of Spain celebration in Abuja on Thursday. He emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding democratic values and regional integration in West Africa.
The situation in the West African region has been marred by political instability, with the recent overthrow of Niger’s President Mohamed Bazoum by military officers led by Gen. Tchiani Abdourahmane on July 26, 2023. In response, ECOWAS imposed sanctions on Niger to compel the restoration of the ousted president, but diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis have so far proven unsuccessful. On August 10, ECOWAS issued orders for the deployment of the sub-regional Standby Force, although military intervention in Niger is pending.
This coup in Niger follows a series of coups in neighboring countries, including Guinea, Chad, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Gabon. These developments have raised concerns among international powers with strategic interests in the region.
Ambassador Sell also highlighted the role of Nigeria in the West African context, stating, “What Nigeria does, or does not do, has a direct impact on the continent and, in particular, Western Africa. This underscores the responsibility of leading by example.”
Spain expressed full support, along with the European Union (EU), for ECOWAS in its mission to protect democracy in member states. The ambassador also pledged Spain’s support to Nigeria during its ongoing period of transition and reform, acknowledging the challenges the nation faces in making crucial decisions and implementing reforms.
As the region navigates these complex political challenges, the international community, including Spain and the EU, stands united in its commitment to promoting democracy and stability in West Africa.