Mahama’s ECOWAS Diplomacy Praised as Key Step Toward Reuniting Sahel States

Accra, April 17, 2025 — International Relations Analyst Dr. Yaw Gebe has commended President John Dramani Mahama for his renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at reintegrating Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso into the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Speaking on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News with Bernard Avle, Dr. Gebe described the President’s invitation to the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to attend the upcoming ECOWAS 50th Anniversary launch as a “meaningful and strategic move” toward restoring unity in the sub-region.

“If President Mahama has again invited them to witness the inauguration of the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS, I think it is a step in the right direction,” Dr. Gebe said.

Context: A Fractured Regional Bloc

Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso withdrew from ECOWAS in 2023, citing sovereignty concerns and dissatisfaction with the bloc’s stance on their political transitions. The three nations later formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), triggering concerns over regional fragmentation and security cooperation.

Despite their formal exit, Dr. Gebe emphasized that reengagement is still possible, and such events can serve as neutral platforms for renewed dialogue.

“Their presence at the anniversary could open the door to renewed collaboration,” he stated.

Call for ECOWAS Reform and Deeper Engagement

Dr. Gebe also urged ECOWAS leaders, including Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and President Mahama, to confront the underlying grievances that led to the Sahel states’ departure.

“Whatever the Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu or President John Mahama are doing, they should be conscious of the problems or challenges these countries are facing,” he added.

“The ECOWAS must be willing and ready to tackle those problems collectively. And that is a major shortcoming on the part of ECOWAS.”

Looking Ahead: ECOWAS at 50

The ECOWAS 50th Anniversary celebration, scheduled for April 22, 2025, in Accra, is expected to attract all member states, representatives from the AES, and international partners. The event will celebrate five decades of regional cooperation while reaffirming ECOWAS’ commitment to unity, peace, and economic integration.

President Mahama’s outreach is being widely seen as a test of regional diplomacy—and a potential turning point for healing geopolitical rifts within West Africa.