The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has cautioned that the reported plans by the United States to impose visa restrictions on all West African countries, including Nigeria, could severely undermine the region’s economic prosperity and diplomatic relations.
Speaking at the 54th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council at the Ministerial Level in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, expressed strong concerns over the policy. Tuggar, who currently chairs the Council, warned that such restrictions would act as non-tariff barriers, obstructing trade, diplomacy, and strategic partnerships with the U.S.
“It would be most unfortunate if this comes to pass,” Tuggar said. “We are a region of opportunities ready to do deals. Imposing blanket visa bans sends the wrong message.”
He highlighted the region’s vast natural resources, including rare earth minerals like Samarium found in Bauchi State, emphasizing that ECOWAS nations offer viable and strategic alternatives to distant energy producers.
Tuggar stressed that facilitating travel for officials, entrepreneurs, and technocrats is essential to harness these opportunities. “The only question is: with whom will we do these deals?” he added.
The session also focused on regional peace, terrorism, maritime security, and election preparedness in member states.
