President Bola Tinubu has urged African nations to speak with one voice in condemning the recent wave of Afro-phobic, also known as xenophobic, attacks in South Africa, stressing that such acts of intolerance have no place on the continent.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Tinubu said a united African response would send a strong message that xenophobia is unacceptable in any form.
He disclosed that Nigeria has already evacuated more than 1,490 citizens from South Africa through seven evacuation operations and remains prepared to take additional steps if necessary.
The President also reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration, describing it as a vital framework for strengthening regional unity, rebuilding public trust, and promoting peace, democratic governance, and economic integration across West Africa.
Tinubu called on ECOWAS to formally present the issue of the attacks at the next African Union summit, emphasizing that South Africa should remember the support and sacrifices made by African nations, including Nigeria, during its liberation struggle.
He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to constitutional governance, the rule of law, human rights, and zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government. He also urged stronger regional cooperation to combat insecurity, terrorism, and political instability through intelligence sharing, joint security operations, and the strengthening of the ECOWAS Standby Force.
Highlighting economic development, Tinubu pledged Nigeria’s continued support for initiatives that remove trade barriers, improve cross-border infrastructure, encourage the free movement of people and goods, and create a more business-friendly environment across the region.
He further stressed the importance of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation, noting that a regional digital single market and stronger cooperation in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure would drive economic growth, entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and job creation for young people.
The President also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing gender equality, expanding opportunities for women, investing in education and skills development, and empowering young people to play a greater role in shaping West Africa’s future.
During the meeting, ECOWAS Chairman and Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio said the regional bloc must adapt to changing global realities while strengthening regional integration and reducing dependence on external partners. He noted that climate change and global disruptions continue to threaten food, fuel, and fertilizer supplies across West Africa.
United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed pledged the UN’s continued support for ECOWAS and Sahel nations in tackling terrorism and other security challenges, while ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to improving governance and policy coordination among member states.
The summit also witnessed the signing of the Intergovernmental Agreement for the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline project.
