By Sabiu Abdullahi
Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on leaders of West African countries to respect constitutional term limits, warning that attempts to alter them could undermine democratic governance and regional stability.
Shettima made the appeal on Sunday during the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Lungi, Sierra Leone. He spoke during a discussion on the future of regional integration in West Africa.
The vice president said Nigeria remains committed to promoting peace, security and democratic governance across the region. He stressed that sustainable development cannot thrive where insecurity and political instability persist.
“Nigeria supports the Compact’s commitment to constitutional governance, the rule of law, respect for human rights, and zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government,” he said.
He also urged leaders to focus on good governance, which he described as the strongest safeguard against unconstitutional changes of government and widespread protests.
“I am to add that beyond adventurism, the most effective tool against Unconstitutional Changes of Government and mass protests that is capable of undermining good order is for us to enthrone good governance that delivers more tangible benefits to our citizens.
“We must also avoid the temptation to tamper with the constitutional term limits or exploit constitutional processes.”
The ECOWAS Compact on the Future of Regional Integration is a six-pillar framework designed to implement the bloc’s Vision 2050. The initiative seeks to transform ECOWAS into an institution that delivers practical benefits to citizens in areas such as security, economic integration and digital connectivity.
Shettima described the compact as a forward-looking document that reflects the shared aspirations of the people of West Africa.
“Nigeria recognises the evolving global geopolitical landscape and the Compact’s vision of ECOWAS as a more cohesive, influential, and strategically autonomous regional actor,” he said.
“In an increasingly multipolar world, West Africa must speak with one voice in advancing its collective interests, safeguarding its sovereignty, and building partnerships anchored on mutual respect, equality and shared prosperity.”
The vice president also reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the establishment of the ECOWAS counter-terrorism force and the strengthening of the regional standby force. He said the measures would improve intelligence sharing, strengthen joint security operations and reinforce preventive diplomacy to promote peace and stability across West Africa.
