NIGERIA’S DIPLOMATIC ROLE IN ECOWAS UNDER PRESIDENT TINUBU: ROLES, REGIONAL IMPACT AND CHALLENGES SINCE 2024

Abstract

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has long served as a pillar of regional stability, economic development, and conflict resolution in West Africa. Nigeria, as the region’s largest economy and a key political actor, has historically played a leadership role within the organization. However, since assuming office in 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has had to navigate a complex landscape marked by political instability, military coups, economic crises, and security threats among ECOWAS member states. This study examines Nigeria’s evolving role under Tinubu’s leadership, focusing on the country’s diplomatic, economic, and security interventions in the region. Adopting a qualitative research methodology, the study relies on content analysis of policy documents, official statements, and scholarly literature. The analysis is framed within the regional hegemonic stability theory, which argues that a dominant power within a regional system plays a crucial role in maintaining order and stability. Findings reveal that while Tinubu has shown commitment to democratic governance and regional mediation, his administration faces considerable obstacles, including resistance from coup-led governments, economic limitations, and internal political pressures within Nigeria. Despite these challenges, Nigeria’s engagement in ECOWAS remains vital for regional peace and development. The study concludes that for Nigeria to sustain its leadership role, it must strengthen diplomatic channels, foster deeper economic collaboration, and adopt a more strategic approach to regional interventions. By doing so, the country can enhance ECOWAS’s effectiveness in addressing the pressing political and security challenges confronting West Africa.