Nigeriens, yesterday, welcomed the lifting of sanctions by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) following the July 26, 2023, ouster of President Mohamed Bazoum by the military.
The bloc’s threat of force has fizzled out with little sign that Bazoum – still imprisoned in the presidential palace in Niamey – is close to being restored.
At the weekend, ECOWAS announced that it was lifting some of the sanctions, including a no-fly zone, border closures and asset freezes.
The penalties have hit Niger hard, where the extreme poverty rate exceeds 40 per cent, according to the World Bank.
“We’re very happy that the sanctions have been lifted. For us, it’s like a day of celebration because everything is going to return to normal.
“The month of Ramadan is coming up (mid-March) and we’re hoping for a drop in the price of basic commodities so that the rich and poor alike can find enough to feed their families,” Abdoul Aziz Issoufou told the AFP in Niamey.
In Tahoua, Niger’s south-west, the news was greeted by horns and parades of motorbikes and cars.
Amid the celebrations, an economist, Hima Garba, pointed out that Niger’s borders remain plagued by violence and jihadist attacks.
Similarly, the Northern Senators Forum has lauded ECOWAS leaders for the decision.
In a statement by its spokesperson, Suleiman Kawu, the group said the move reflects the bloc’s commitment to regional solidarity, cooperation and respect for human rights.
It said: “We are pleased to see that ECOWAS has responded to the progressive requests made by us individually and collectively on the subject matter, and we commend their prudent and compassionate approach in addressing these critical issues.
“We understand that this action will go a long way in alleviating the suffering of the people of Niger Republic, as well as ensuring the restoration of stability and economic prosperity in our region.
“We are particularly grateful that ECOWAS leaders have considered our pleas to restore electricity, open borders and lift the sanctions on Niger Republic.”
The forum urged the Nigerien government and people to fast-track restoration of civil rule for a stronger and more prosperous nation.
