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Niger coup: ECOWAS gives Tchaini a 7-day ultimatum to reinstate Bazoom as president

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Authority of Heads of State and Government is not taking the coup by General Abdourahamane Tchiani in Niger Republic lightly as it has isdued a seven-day ultimatum within which he must return power to Mohammed Bazoom.

This is coming as part of the resolutions arrived at during the emergency meeting of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, held in Abuja on Sunday.

A stern warning followed as part of other resolutions that if the alleged coup plotters failed to restore political stability in seven days, ECOWAS may use force.

ECOWAS had also directed the chiefs of defense staff of member states to meet immediately.

According to Omar Alieu-Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, who read out the resolutions, the leaders have ordered the closure of land and air borders between ECOWAS countries and Niger.

Other immediate sanctions by ECOWAS, include the imposition of a no fly zone on all commercial flights to and from Niger.

He also announced the suspension of all commercial and financial transactions between ECOWAS Member States and Niger, including the freezing of all service transactions, including energy transactions, as well as the freezing of the assets of the Republic of Niger in ECOWAS Central Banks.

Present at the summit were the following heads of state and government and mandated representatives: His Excellency, President Patrice Talon, President of the Republic of Benin, President Alassane Ouattara, President of the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire. Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of the Gambia. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana.

Others are General Omar Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco Embaló, President of the Republic of Guinea Bissau. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Macky Sall, President of the Republic of Senegal, President Faure Gnassingbé of the Togolese Republic. The representative of the President of the Republic of Cape Verde, the representative of the President of the Republic of Liberia, the representative of President Bazoom, President and Head of State of the Republic of Niger, the representative of President Julius Maada Wonie Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone.

Others include Omar Al Turia, president of the ECOWAS, Musa Faki, Muhammad, chairperson of the African Union Commission, Leonardo Santos Simão, who was special representative of the United Nations Secretary General for West Africa and the Sahel and Head of Universe, including Mr Job, President of the Commission of UMR.

Touray said the principle of zero tolerance for unconstitutional change of government as enshrined in the ECOWAS and African Union protocols and other instruments remains in force.

His words, “ECOWAS resolve as follows.

“One, His Excellency President Mohammed Bazoom remains the legitimate, elected president and head of state of the Republic of Niger, recognized by ECOWAS, the African Union and the international community.

“In this regard, only official acts of President Bazoum or his duly mandated officials will be recognized by ECOWAS.

“Condemn in the strongest terms, the attempted overthrow of constitutional order in Niger, and the illegal detention of His Excellency President Mohammed Bazoum, President and head of state of Niger, as well as members of his family and government.

“Call for the immediate release and reinstatement of President Mohammed Bazoum as president and head of state of the Republic of Niger, and for the full restoration of constitutional order in the Republic of Nigeria.

“Reject any form of resignation that may purportedly come from His Excellency, President Mohammed Bazoum.

“Consider the illegal detention of President Mohammed Bazoum, as a hostage situation and hold the authors of the attempted coup d’etat solely and fully responsible for the safety and security of His Excellency President Mohammed Bazoum, as well as members of his family and government.

“In the event, the authorities’ demands are not met within one week. Take all measures necessary to restore constitutional order in the Republic of Niger. Such measures may include the use of force. For this effect, the chiefs of defense staff of ECOWAS are to meet immediately.

“Hold accountable, all those responsible for violence and terror against lives and properties of innocent citizens and residents of Niger.

“Condemned the pronouncement of support by foreign governments and foreign private military contractors. Express our appreciation to the various governments and partners for their stance and solidarity with ECOWAS.

“Appoint and dispatch a special representative of the chair of the authority to Niger immediately to deliver the demands of the authority.

“In the meantime, the following measures are to be applied with immediate effect.

“Closure of land and air borders between ECOWAS countries and Niger.

” Institution of ECOWAS, no fly zone on all commercial flights to and from Niger. Suspension of all commercial and financial transactions between ECOWAS Member States and Niger.

” Freeze all service transactions, including energy transactions. Freeze assets of the Republic of Niger in ECOWAS Central Banks. Freeze of assets of the Niger State and the state enterprises and parastatals in commercial banks.

“Suspension of measures from all financial assistance and transactions with all financial institutions, particularly EBID, and BAORD.

“Calls WAHU and all other regional bodies to implement this decision.

“Impose travel ban and asset freeze for the military officials involved in the coup attempt. The same applies to their family members, and the civilians who accept transactions, in any institutions or government, established by these military officials.

“Express appreciation to His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu. President and Head of State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the manner in which he has conducted the affairs of the community since his election as chair of the ECOWAS authority”.

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West Africa

Liberia Seeks Climate Partnership with Nigeria to Strengthen Climate Resilience

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In a bid to bolster its fight against climate change, a high-powered delegation of Liberian parliamentarians and environmentalists has sought strategic collaboration with Nigeria, recognizing the country’s climate policies as a model for Africa.

Led by Hon. Ernest Manseah Snr, the Liberian team engaged with Nigeria’s Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Ecology and Climate Change at the National Assembly in Abuja on Thursday.
Their discussions centered on Nigeria’s climate governance framework, particularly its pioneering Climate Change Act, and how Liberia can adapt similar measures to tackle environmental challenges.

Speaking at the Senate session chaired by Senator Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West), Hon. Manseah Snr highlighted Nigeria’s proactive climate strategies as a benchmark for Liberia’s own climate resilience efforts.
“We have come to learn from you, distinguished members of this committee, on how Nigeria has been mitigating the effects of climate change,” he said.
“In Liberia, we are considering the establishment of a Climate Fund, but beyond funding, we want to tap into Nigeria’s strategies for tackling environmental challenges.”
In response, Senator Dickson emphasized the urgency of African nations working together to combat climate change.
He pointed out that Nigeria’s ‘Climate Change Act—the first of its kind in Africa’ provides a legal foundation for the country’s mitigation and adaptation measures.
“Climate change is a major challenge that requires collective efforts across Africa,” Senator Dickson said.
“Nigeria is ready to support Liberia’s climate initiatives, and we look forward to strengthening this partnership.”
Other committee members, including Senate Minority Whip Osita Ngwu (Enugu West), Senator Adetokunbo Abiru (Lagos East), and Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central), applauded the initiative and called for a continent-wide collaboration on climate policies, disaster response, and environmental sustainability.
While discussions focused on policy frameworks, experts have stressed the need for grassroots climate adaptation projects to protect vulnerable communities from rising sea levels, deforestation, and extreme weather events. Liberia, which faces severe environmental threats, hopes to learn from Nigeria’s experience in implementing climate-smart solutions at both national and local levels.
The delegation later proceeded to meet with the House of Representatives Committee on Ecology and Climate Change for further engagements.
As Africa grapples with the devastating effects of climate change, this proposed Nigeria-Liberia partnership could serve as a blueprint for broader regional cooperation—one that not only strengthens climate policies but also empowers communities to adapt and thrive in an era of global environmental uncertainty.

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West Africa

Randy Abbey’s COCOBOD Appointment Marks a New Era for Ghana’s Cocoa Industry

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The appointment of Randy Abbey as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) by President John Dramani Mahama has ignited widespread optimism within the cocoa industry.
Stakeholders see this leadership transition as a defining moment for Ghana’s cocoa sector, one that could reshape policies, empower farmers, and reinforce the country’s position as a global cocoa powerhouse.
The Cocoa Farmers Alliance Association of Africa (COFAAA) has been among the most vocal in welcoming the appointment. In a statement signed by its President, Comrade Adeola Adegoke; Public Relations Officer, Nana Yaw Reuben; and Secretary, Nabyoullah Dosso, the association lauded Abbey’s expertise and vision.
“This appointment comes at a crucial time for Ghanaian cocoa farmers. We believe Mr. Abbey’s leadership will bring innovative policies that enhance sustainability, productivity, and farmer welfare,” COFAAA’s statement read.

Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, is at a crossroads. Challenges such as climate change, fluctuating global prices, and the need for greater local value addition require dynamic leadership and forward-thinking policies.
Abbey’s tenure is expected to prioritize solutions that not only secure fair pricing for farmers but also promote sustainable farming practices and industry modernization.

His appointment also comes amid renewed global focus on Africa’s role in the cocoa value chain.
The recent visit of ICCO Executive Director Mitchel Arrion to Yaoundé, Cameroon, for the 111th Ordinary Session of the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) highlighted the continent’s collective push for better conditions for cocoa farmers.
COFAAA and other industry leaders have pledged their full support to Abbey, stressing the importance of partnerships, innovation, and policies that put farmers at the center of the industry’s growth.

As Abbey steps into this pivotal role, the expectations are high. His leadership will be measured not just by Ghana’s production output but by the tangible benefits felt by the farmers who form the backbone of the industry.
“We are eager to collaborate and drive meaningful change that ensures cocoa farmers get the recognition, support, and opportunities they deserve,” COFAAA reaffirmed.
Abbey’s tenure could mark a turning point for Ghana’s cocoa sector—one that moves beyond raw exports to a more value-driven, farmer-focused, and globally competitive industry. His ability to navigate these challenges and opportunities will define the next chapter of Ghana’s cocoa legacy.

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West Africa

Obi Celebrates Mahama’s Return as Ghana’s President, Advocates for African Unity

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John Dramani Mahama

Nigerian statesman and former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has congratulated Ghana’s President, John Dramani Maham, on his re-election and inauguration for another term in office.
In a statement issued via his X handle, Obi hailed Mahama’s victory in Ghana’s December 7, 2024, election as a resounding mandate for national renewal and inclusive governance.
Obi praised the Ghanaian leader’s triumph as a reflection of the people’s yearning for progress, stability, and development. He urged Mahama to prioritize policies that promote equity, accountability, and economic resilience, ensuring the welfare of all Ghanaians.
“May this new chapter be defined by peace, prosperity, and the fulfillment of Ghana’s collective aspirations,” Obi stated. He emphasized that Mahama’s leadership should inspire the rest of Africa to pursue unity, growth, and sustainable development.
Political analysts have interpreted Obi’s message as a call for closer collaboration among African nations to address shared challenges, including insecurity, poverty, and economic disparities.
Obi further invoked the legacy of Ghana’s founding father, Kwame Nkrumah, urging Mahama to uphold the Pan-African vision of integration and continental progress.
Observers note that the bond between Obi and Mahama symbolizes a shift toward stronger West African cooperation amid mounting socio-economic and security concerns.
Ghanaians now look to Mahama’s administration to deliver on campaign promises, particularly in areas such as job creation, education, and infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Obi’s remarks have sparked widespread praise across social media, with many commending his statesmanship and Pan-African outlook.
As Mahama begins his new term, all eyes remain on how his leadership will address Ghana’s pressing needs while serving as a beacon of progress for Africa’s future.

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