ECOWAS summit focuses on B’Haram

Activities of the fundamental Islamic sect, Boko Haram, in North- Eastern part of Nigeria took the centre stage on Friday at the 44th Ordinary Session of the Conference of Economic Community of West African States Heads of State and Government in Yamoussoukro, Cote D’Ivoire.

Other issues that dominated discussion at the summit attended by President Goodluck Jonathan alongside other presidents in the sub-region were security situations in Mali and Guinea Bissau as well as the next elections in Guinea Bissau.

The planned construction of the Lagos-Abidjan Highway was also discussed.

Jonathan was honoured during the opening with “Son of Excellence” award in recognition of the country’s recent efforts and sacrifices in bringing peace and stability to Guinea Bissau, Mali and other troubled parts of the sub-region.

Ivorian President and outgoing Chairman of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, Alassane Outtara, in his remarks condemned the insurgents operating in parts of Nigeria.

He urged countries in the sub-region to cooperate, saying sister nations can no longer afford to keep quiet because the insurgency affects Nigeria alone.

He also commended Nigeria, Senegal, Ghana and others for the contribution to the restoration of peace in Guinea Bissau and Mali.

The President of ECOWAS Commission, Kadre Ouedraogo, condemned Boko Haram activities, describing it as a “stark reminder” for sub-regional leaders to urgently put heads together and nip the violence in the bud.