President John Dramani Mahama has urged leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to remain committed to dialogue and engagement with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), warning that regional unity remains critical to peace and stability in West Africa.
Speaking at his installation as Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source by the Ooni of Ife at a ceremony in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria, on Monday, December 15, 2025, President Mahama said the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger from ECOWAS should not derail the broader goal of regional integration.
“Our sub-region is facing serious challenges, especially in the Sahel. Three of our members have decided to break away and form the AES, but I do not believe this development should deter us.”
He stressed that the long-standing historical, cultural and economic bonds among West African countries outweigh present political disagreements, cautioning against policies of exclusion and isolation.
“God put us together in this sub-region for a purpose. Instead of ostracising our brothers, we must continue to build bridges between ECOWAS and our brothers in the Sahel, because our destinies are tied together.”
Drawing on a Ghanaian proverb, President Mahama highlighted the shared nature of regional security, warning that instability in one country inevitably affects others.
“In Ghana, we say that when there is fire burning in your neighbour’s house, you take water and help to quench it. If you stand by and allow your neighbour’s house to burn down, the fire will eventually spread to your own house.”
He called on ECOWAS leaders to sustain diplomatic engagement with the AES countries and work towards their eventual return to the regional bloc.
“We must continue to engage them, build bridges and encourage them to come back into the fold. That is the only way we can secure lasting peace, stability and shared prosperity for our people.”
By: Ekow Annan/newsalertgh.com
