Why I Was Absent from ECOWAS 50th Anniversary in Lagos – Buhari

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has explained his absence from the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held in Lagos on Wednesday, attributing it to a medical check-up in the United Kingdom. In a letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Buhari extended his congratulations to ECOWAS on reaching this significant milestone and expressed regret for not being able to attend the historic event.

Buhari acknowledged the regional bloc’s resilience and achievements over the past five decades, commending the collective efforts of the Heads of State and Government. He also paid tribute to retired General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s former Head of State and the only surviving founding father of ECOWAS, highlighting his crucial role in the bloc’s establishment in 1975.

The 50th anniversary celebration, which marked a major milestone for ECOWAS, featured a symbolic reenactment of the original declaration at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Victoria Island, Lagos. The regional body was formally inaugurated in Lagos in 1975.

In a separate statement issued by his spokesperson Garba Shehu, Buhari praised President Tinubu for steering Nigeria through challenging but necessary reforms. He emphasized that the desired changes must not be undermined by domestic political struggles and encouraged Nigerians to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) government as it enters its second year. Buhari acknowledged the economic difficulties faced by many citizens, particularly the vulnerable, but stressed that these hardships are part of a purposeful effort toward long-term progress. He also called on all Nigerians to share responsibility in tackling poverty and inflation, rather than leaving it solely to the government.

Additionally, Buhari congratulated Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, former Governor of Rivers State and Former Minister of Transportation, on his 60th birthday. In a statement, Buhari described Amaechi as a “golden fish” and an invaluable asset to his administration.