WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF THE IMPASSE IN NIGER/ECOWAS RELATION

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When the military took over in Niger, Ecowas sent ex-president Salaam Abubakar as an envoy and he was received in Niger by the coupists. However, the coupists have become more cautious in receiving mediation missions after the Ecowas issued threat of military intervention.

The solution now is to get an envoy that all sides in Niger will welcome and respect. Since state actors have already tried their chance it is important to engage non state actors to open up the diplomatic initiative. Dialogue is the key for consensus building. We therefore hope that envoys who act as committees of the wise would be sought to open up for longer term solutions.