Harry Archie
President Bola Tinubu has called on African countries to speak with one voice against the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, saying such violence against Africans is unacceptable.
Speaking at the 69th ECOWAS Summit in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said African leaders should jointly condemn the attacks and raise the issue at the next African Union summit.
He said South Africa should remember that many African countries, including Nigeria, supported its struggle for freedom during the apartheid era.
Tinubu revealed that Nigeria has already evacuated more than 1,490 of its citizens from South Africa in seven batches and is ready to take further action if necessary.
The President also reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration, saying it would strengthen unity, peace, economic growth and cooperation among West African countries.
He urged ECOWAS member states to work together to tackle insecurity, terrorism and unconstitutional changes of government, while promoting democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights.
Tinubu also stressed the need to remove trade barriers, improve cross-border infrastructure, encourage the free movement of people and goods, and support businesses across the region.
He said investment in technology, digital innovation and artificial intelligence would create jobs, boost economic growth and improve opportunities for young people.The President further pledged Nigeria’s commitment to promoting gender equality, supporting women in leadership, investing in education and skills development, and empowering young people across West Africa.
At the summit, Sierra Leone’s President and ECOWAS Chairman, Julius Maada Bio, called for stronger regional cooperation to address security, economic and climate challenges facing West Africa.
United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed also pledged the UN’s support for ECOWAS efforts to combat terrorism and strengthen peace and security in the region.
The summit also witnessed the signing of the Intergovernmental Agreement for the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline project.
