As the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) meet on Thursday, August 10, 2023 in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital to proffer solution to the political crisis in Niger Republic, the regional body has been advised to adopt public diplomacy in resolving the problem.
The 14th Emir of Kano State, Lamido Sanusi II gave the advice in Abuja on Wednesday.
The Emir, who was speaking to State House Correspondents soon after he met behind closed doors with President Ahmed Biola Tinubu, said that the current crisis in Niger Republic requires public diplomacy.
Sanusi, who had earlier met with the coup leaders in neighbouring Niger Republic, arrived at the Presidential Villa, Abuja at about 7:25 GMT, said that he was around to brief President Tinubu on his discussions with the leaders of the military junta that overthrew the democratically elected government in Niger.
According to him, “I came to brief him on the details of my discussions with leaders of Niger. We’ll continue to do our best to bring the two parties together to improve understanding.
“This is the time for public diplomacy, it’s not a matter that we leave to governments alone, all Nigerians, all Nigeriens need to be involved to find a solution that works for Africa, a solution that works for Niger that works for Nigeria and a solution that works for humanity.”
Asked if he took the initiative by himself or deleted by the government, he said:
“No, I was not sent by the government. Government officials were aware I was going, but it was my personal initiative, using my personal contacts to get there and I will continue to do my best. It is my duty as a leader to do that,” he said.
Emir Sanusi said he was well received by the military junta when he paid a visit to Niger on Wednesday.
PIAK
