Tuggar Calls for Stronger ECOWAS-U.S. Partnership, Criticizes Visa Restrictions

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, has emphasized the importance of strengthening the partnership between ECOWAS and the United States, urging collaboration based on shared needs and mutual growth.

Speaking at the 54th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council at the ministerial level on Wednesday in Abuja, Tuggar called for decisive and united action to promote peace, security, and good governance across West Africa.

“There is often a direct correlation between security and prosperity. Sustained prosperity is achieved through trade and investment devoid of barriers,” he said.

Tuggar expressed concern over reports of expanded U.S. visa restrictions on ECOWAS countries, warning that such policies could undermine opportunities for economic collaboration.

“This would be most unfortunate if it comes to pass, because we are a region of opportunities ready to do deals. Visa restrictions are non-tariff barriers,” he noted, highlighting the region’s strategic resources like Samarium from Monazite in Bauchi.

He added that ECOWAS is well-positioned as a reliable partner, especially as an alternative to distant and politically divergent energy producers. “We will do deals for our prosperity. The only question is with whom?” Tuggar asked.

He urged the U.S. to facilitate the free movement of government officials, business leaders, and entrepreneurs to enable investment and collaboration.

The minister also stressed the significance of the Council’s session, which includes discussions on political, security, and humanitarian developments. Among key topics are the transition process in Guinea, updates on regional peace operations, and the strengthening of Early Warning and Response Centres across member states.

Tuggar highlighted the introduction of a Regional Partnership for Democracy (RPD), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme, aimed at tackling governance challenges. The RPD, launched between May 15 and 24, is intended to be adapted by member states to suit their political contexts.

The session was attended by the President of ECOWAS, the Vice-President of the ECOWAS Commission, foreign ministers, mediation and security council members, resident representatives, and heads of institutions.