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ABUJA, Nigeria - President of ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Touray, has urged Turkey to enhance its support for the regional body's initiatives aimed at combating terrorism in West Africa.
Touray made this request during a farewell visit from the outgoing Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Hidayet Bayraktar, at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
He emphasized that Turkey is a key ally for ECOWAS, a significant partner for Africa, and a recognized global power, and should continue its efforts to foster peace, unity, and security in the region.
“Turkey is an important partner for Africa and a trusted associate of ECOWAS. Its leadership is recognized and appreciated across the African continent,” he stated.
Touray also reflected on the various strategies undertaken by ECOWAS and the UN to address insecurity and terrorism in the subregion, highlighting that insecurity remains West Africa's most pressing issue.
The president praised the Turkish ambassador's dedication and support to ECOWAS throughout his tenure, as well as Turkey’s contributions to the advancement of West Africa.
Nevertheless, he stressed the necessity for intentional collaborative efforts to advance peace and security, which he called essential for the region’s development.
“ECOWAS faces significant challenges from insecurity, and no member state can tackle this issue in isolation. Without unity, we cannot address this threat. It is crucial that we work together to maintain peace and stability in West Africa,” Touray remarked.
Earlier, Ambassador Bayraktar reiterated Turkey’s dedication to strengthening its support for ECOWAS in addressing the issues of violent extremism and terrorism, along with promoting peace and stability.
The Turkish envoy also praised the ongoing excellent collaboration between his country and ECOWAS, acknowledging Touray’s contributions that have helped deepen this partnership.
He pointed out the need for additional joint efforts to explore more effective strategies for combating insecurity and terrorism within the ECOWAS region.
The visit signified the conclusion of Bayraktar’s tenure as the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria with concurrent accreditation to ECOWAS
