Nigeria has intensified efforts to bridge divisions between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) as diplomatic talks begin in Dakar, Senegal.
The discussions are expected to produce agreement on a draft General Framework Agreement between the two regional blocs ahead of the ECOWAS Summit scheduled to hold in Abuja in December 2026.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi.
According to the ministry, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, is leading Nigeria’s delegation to the first round of discussions between ECOWAS and the AES.
The meeting is aimed at aligning the strategic positions of ECOWAS member states and creating room for targeted ministerial and technical discussions on issues affecting the region.
The engagement is also expected to advance efforts to preserve regional integration despite the political differences between the two blocs.
Nigeria’s participation underscores its commitment to promoting dialogue and preventing divisions within West Africa from weakening longstanding relationships among countries in the region.
The ministry said the Federal Government remained committed to peace and security, stressing the need to protect the historical, cultural and geographical ties connecting West African nations.
It added that Nigeria would continue to support diplomatic initiatives aimed at ensuring that the withdrawal of AES member states does not undermine cooperation and regional cohesion.
