In a powerful appeal for regional stability, former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. TY Buratai (rtd), has called on ECOWAS and the African Union (AU) to prioritize the return of the Association of Sahel States (AES) to ensure the survival of West African integration.
Speaking Thursday at the Voice of Nigeria (VON) Forum 2026 in Abuja, Buratai warned that the region’s progress could become a “mirage” without the inclusion of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic.
A Legacy of Sacrifice
Buratai highlighted Nigeria’s historic role as the “unshakable anchor” of the sub-region. He pointed to Nigeria’s decades of leadership in ECOMOG missions across Liberia, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Guinea-Bissau as evidence of the nation’s commitment.
”Nigeria has sacrificed and invested in blood, treasure, and diplomacy to defend democracy,” Buratai stated. “Our stability is inseparable from the security of our neighbours.”
The Path to Unity
The General urged ECOWAS to deepen its engagement with the African Union to bridge the current diplomatic rift with the AES nations. He emphasized that the collective security of West Africa depends on a unified front, noting that democracy and regional safety are “two sides of the same coin.”
”The unity of ECOWAS cannot be complete without Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic. Without unity, progress in the region may be a mirage,” Buratai cautioned.
Celebrating 51 Years of VON
The forum also served as a celebration of Voice of Nigeria’s 51st anniversary. Buratai lauded the broadcaster as a “Nigerian voice with an African heart,” praising its professionalism and pan-African vision.
He paid tribute to veteran journalists, including the late Mohammed Okorejor and retired director Ben Shamang, while commending the current Director General for revitalizing the agency.
The retired General concluded his message with a call to strengthen regional institutions, urging leaders to honor the legacy of ECOWAS through renewed cooperation and institutional integrity.
