Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has described the reported plan by the United States to impose visa restrictions on all West African states, including Nigeria, as “most unfortunate.”
Tuggar made the statement on Wednesday while delivering the opening address at the 54th Ordinary Session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Mediation and Security Council at the ministerial level in Abuja.
Speaking in his capacity as Chair of the Council, Tuggar expressed concern over the reported inclusion of all ECOWAS member states in a new round of U.S. visa restrictions. He said such a move would create unnecessary barriers to trade, diplomacy, and regional development, especially at a time when West Africa is seeking stronger global partnerships.
“It would be remiss of me not to mention the apparent decision by the U.S. Government to include ECOWAS countries in its visa restrictions,” he said. “This would be most unfortunate, because we are a region full of opportunities and ready to engage in meaningful deals.”
He highlighted the region’s economic potential, citing its wealth of critical minerals, including rare earths like samarium found in Bauchi State, Nigeria. “Visa restrictions act as non-tariff barriers to trade and investment. We want to do deals with the U.S., but we also need freedom of movement for our officials, technocrats, and entrepreneurs,” he added.
Tuggar stressed the strategic relevance of the ECOWAS sub-region in the global energy and minerals market, urging the U.S. and other world powers to see West Africa as a valuable partner rather than a region to isolate.
On regional issues, Tuggar underscored the importance of peace and stability, noting that the session would address developments in the transition process in Guinea, preparations for upcoming elections in two member states, as well as challenges related to maritime security, terrorism, and transnational organized crime.
Also speaking at the event, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, said the bloc continues to make progress in its peace and security efforts. He outlined several key initiatives, including the ECOWAS Standby Force Logistics Concept, the West African Police Information System (WAPIS), and the establishment of National Early Warning and Response Centres.
Touray added that updates would also be shared on regional responses to humanitarian challenges and the ongoing implementation of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing measures.
