By Seun Ibiyemi
President Bola Tinubu has called on African nations to unite in condemning the wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa warning that silence from the continent could embolden intolerance and undermine African solidarity.
Speaking on Sunday at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Freetown, Sierra Leone, the President, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, said a coordinated response from African leaders was necessary to send an unmistakable message that attacks on fellow Africans would not be tolerated.
Tinubu disclosed that Nigeria had already evacuated more than 1,490 of its citizens from South Africa in seven batches following the recent attacks.
“Nigeria condemns, in the strongest terms, the recent attacks on its citizens and other Africans in the Republic of South Africa,” the President said.
He urged ECOWAS member states to adopt a common position and ensure that the issue is placed before the next session of the African Union Authority of Heads of State and Government.
“As already stated by His Excellency, the President of Ghana, ECOWAS should present a united voice in this condemnation and table the matter before the next session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the African Union.
“This would send a clear message that this type of intolerance is totally unacceptable under any guise.
South Africa should be reminded that the freedom it currently enjoys is the result of the sacrifices and liberation efforts of African countries, including Nigeria,” Tinubu stated.
The President’s remarks came amid growing concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa, where anti-migrant violence has sparked outrage across the continent and prompted emergency evacuations.
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Beyond the xenophobia crisis, Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the newly adopted ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration, describing it as a blueprint for strengthening unity, democratic governance and economic cooperation among West African nations.
He said the compact reflects the determination of member states to rebuild trust in public institutions and create a more resilient and prosperous regional bloc capable of meeting the aspirations of over 400 million people.
“As the largest economy and one of the key founding members of our Regional Economic Community, Nigeria remains steadfast in its historic responsibility to continue the promotion of regional unity, peace, economic integration and democratic governance,” he said.
Tinubu also urged West African leaders to intensify efforts against insecurity and unconstitutional changes of government, stressing that sustainable development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of instability.
“Nigeria supports the Compact’s commitment to constitutional governance, the rule of law, respect for human rights and zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government,” he added.
The President reiterated Nigeria’s support for the establishment of an ECOWAS Counter-Terrorism Force and the strengthening of the regional standby force to enhance intelligence sharing and joint security operations across the sub-region.
He further pledged Nigeria’s commitment to breaking down trade barriers, improving regional infrastructure and promoting the free movement of people, goods and services within West Africa.
On technology and innovation, Tinubu welcomed the compact’s focus on digital transformation, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, noting that a regional digital market could unlock new opportunities for entrepreneurship, education, financial inclusion and job creation, especially for young people.
He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to gender equality, youth empowerment and expanding opportunities for women in leadership and decision-making positions.
