The Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has announced that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament is employing diplomatic efforts to address the potential exits of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from the regional bloc. Speaking in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Kalu detailed the use of parliamentary diplomacy to engage with the three countries, stressing the importance of their continued participation in ECOWAS.
Kalu, who chairs the Joint Committee on Administration, Finance, Budget, Public Accounts, Macroeconomic Policy, and Economic Research, assured that letters have been sent to the governments of these nations, and parliamentary visits are planned to foster dialogue and resolve their grievances.
Despite the threats from these nations, Kalu reassured that ECOWAS’s financial stability would remain intact, citing diverse revenue sources beyond the Community Levy. He emphasized that the bloc is well-positioned to manage its finances even if the countries proceed with their exit.
In addition to addressing the exit threats, the ECOWAS Parliament is also advocating for reforms to enhance legislative independence. Kalu highlighted the need to amend the Supplementary Act to better reflect contemporary political realities and improve the credibility and functionality of the institution.
The push for reform and engagement comes as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have announced their intentions to leave ECOWAS since January 28, 2024. The regional body has since sought to negotiate their return through various means, but has faced limited response.
Kalu remains optimistic that continued dialogue and reform efforts will strengthen ECOWAS and encourage the three countries to reconsider their decision.
