Nigeria’s former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, has called on West African leaders to renew their dedication to democratic governance as the region faces increasing challenges.
Speaking during the 50th anniversary celebration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Lagos on Wednesday, Gowon—one of the founding figures of the bloc in 1975—highlighted the need for reflection and unity in confronting threats to regional stability.
He noted that West Africa continues to struggle with insecurity, political instability, youth unemployment, and economic shocks. Of particular concern, he said, is the return of military coups in some member states, which he described as a serious threat to decades of democratic progress.
“Let us not forget the many trials we’ve faced—political crises, coups, civil wars, economic shocks, pandemics, terrorism, and the forces of globalisation,” Gowon said. “Yet through it all, ECOWAS has endured. It has adapted, reformed, and held fast to the ideals that unite us.”
While celebrating ECOWAS’s resilience, Gowon stressed that the anniversary should also serve as a moment for sober reflection. “We still face serious challenges—especially insecurity, political instability, and youth unemployment,” he said.
On the resurgence of military takeovers in the region, Gowon expressed regret, attributing them to personal ambition. “We thought those days were behind us. Unfortunately, some are still driven by personal gain. But I urge all ECOWAS members to uphold the principles of democracy,” he said. “We must not let these setbacks define us. Instead, they should motivate us to recommit to good governance, economic cooperation, and inclusiveness.”
Commenting on the departure of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS, Gowon expressed hope that the three countries would one day return. “Our bonds of history, culture, and destiny remain intact. With honest dialogue and goodwill, I believe they’ll find reasons to rejoin ECOWAS,” he said.
The three countries announced their exit from the bloc in January 2024 after sanctions were imposed following military coups. Their withdrawal was finalised in January 2025.
