Title: ECOWAS intervention in Niger: a dragging wait
Introduction :
The intervention of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Niger, which was to materialize after the meeting of the chiefs of staff in Accra last August, seems to be bogged down. Despite the announcement of a date and the reconnaissance missions carried out by certain member countries, the operation is slow to get underway. This stagnation leaves doubt as to the real willingness of ECOWAS member states to intervene. In this article, we will analyze the possible reasons for this delay and the consequences it could have on the situation in Niger.
Reconnaissance missions without monitoring:
After the meeting of chiefs of staff, ECOWAS member countries sent reconnaissance missions to Benin, identified as the coordinator of the operation due to its strategic geographical position. However, despite these missions, no troops have arrived in Cotonou to be deployed on the ground. It is questionable whether Member States really intend to support this intervention or whether they have only sent delegations to appear to be taking action.
The region’s heavyweight in waiting:
Nigeria, considered the ECOWAS framework nation, was supposed to provide air assets for the intervention. However, according to sources, the green light from the Nigerian president is still awaited. This prolonged wait raises questions about Nigeria’s real commitment to this operation. As head of ECOWAS, the Nigerian president should be the first defender of constitutional order, but he seems hesitant to take a concrete decision.
A worrying immobility:
The inaction surrounding this intervention is worrying. Officers in the region say they are waiting for orders from politicians, suggesting that the latter are hesitant to take firm measures. This situation gives the impression that ECOWAS is not really ready to act and calls into question its desire to support Niger in its fight to maintain constitutional order.
Conclusion :
The prolonged wait for ECOWAS intervention in Niger raises questions about the real desire of ECOWAS member states to engage in this operation. Despite the announcement of a date and the reconnaissance missions carried out, no troops were deployed. Only Nigeria, as a framework nation, could provide air assets, but its commitment remains uncertain. On the ground, the ruling junta continues to exert pressure on the region. It is time for ECOWAS to take concrete measures to support Niger in its fight for the restoration of constitutional order.