On Saturday, President Bola Tinubu, serving as the chairman of ECOWAS, announced the decision to lift sanctions imposed by the regional bloc on certain member states, citing humanitarian concerns, particularly in light of the upcoming Lenten period and Ramadan.

The Republic of Guinea-Bissau was also relieved of sanctions by the regional body.

In a statement relayed by Ajuri Ngelale, the presidential spokesperson, Tinubu addressed the extraordinary summit of ECOWAS convened in Abuja.

Tinubu emphasized the pursuit of a path aimed at enhancing the welfare of citizens through democratic governance, expressing regret that the sanctions intended to foster dialogue had proven counterproductive.

He reaffirmed ECOWAS’s commitment to regional ideals encompassing security, social stability, democratic governance, political freedom, and economic development for all member states.

Tinubu clarified that the decisions taken were devoid of malice or ulterior motives, reiterating ECOWAS’s respect for the political aspirations of each member state.

Advocating for the suspension of sanctions, Tinubu invoked the spirit of Ramadan and Lent, urging compassion and harmony among nations.

He proposed the indefinite suspension of economic sanctions against Niger, Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso, including the military leadership in these countries, urging ECOWAS to facilitate the unrestricted flow of humanitarian aid, especially to vulnerable populations.

Tinubu underscored the need for enhanced cooperation within the ECOWAS community to address contemporary challenges such as climate change, violent extremism, and resource exploitation.

He urged leaders in the affected countries to embrace dialogue and work collaboratively towards economic development and regional stability.

Tinubu concluded by urging a return to brotherly dialogue and appealed to the leadership in Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, and Niger to seize the opportunity for reconciliation and cooperation.