Coup at Niger: I will prioritize the interest of Nigeria in ECOWAS handling of crisis – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu stated on Saturday that he will prioritize the interests of Nigeria in his approach to ECOWAS’ handling of the regional standoff.

Additionally, Tinubu advised Ambassador Molly Phee, the USA Presidential Envoy and Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, to ensure collaborative U.S. policy with independent African democracies, given their vulnerability to anti-democratic forces.

Tinubu emphasized that American-backed institutions designed for post-World War II Europe must undergo swift reform to support the developmental needs of young African democracies operating in authoritarian contexts.

He stressed that these reforms would prevent legitimate African aspirations from being manipulated by self-serving leaders through unconstitutional means.

Tinubu’s spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, quoted the President as saying, “We’ll create an enabling environment for the private sector to lead. The U.S. Government should encourage industrial investment in Nigeria, and we’re ready to address concerns for prosperity.”

Tinubu also affirmed his commitment to economic reforms in Nigeria, despite the Niger Republic crisis. He emphasized that he would act in the best interest of Nigeria in approaching ECOWAS’ stance on the regional standoff.

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The U.S. Special Presidential Envoy praised Tinubu’s leadership and extended President Joe Biden’s invitation to discuss further collaboration at the UN General Assembly in New York City.

The U.S. acknowledged the potential for increased American investment in Nigeria to strengthen the regional economy.

Tinubu accepted the invitation, recognizing the continuous effort required to perfect democracy, both in developed nations like the U.S. and emerging democracies worldwide.