No Show at ECOWAS@50: Buhari Finally Explains Why

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has explained the reason behind his absence at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), held on Wednesday in Lagos.

Buhari disclosed that he was unable to attend the historic event because he was undergoing a routine medical check-up in the United Kingdom.

In a letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Buhari expressed his regret over missing the milestone occasion and extended his heartfelt congratulations to ECOWAS on reaching its golden jubilee.

“Regrettably, as Your Excellency is aware, I am currently in the United Kingdom for routine medical examinations and therefore unable to participate in this historic event,” he wrote, conveying his best wishes to the regional bloc.

According to Naija News, Buhari used the opportunity to commend ECOWAS for its accomplishments over the past five decades, highlighting the body’s resilience in confronting numerous regional challenges.

He lauded the leadership of ECOWAS for maintaining a steadfast commitment to peace, stability, and regional cooperation despite persistent obstacles.

“I extend my congratulations to Your Excellency and fellow Heads of State and Government on this momentous 50th anniversary of ECOWAS,” Buhari said, emphasizing the importance of collective leadership in shaping the organisation’s progress.

Buhari also paid special tribute to General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), Nigeria’s former Head of State, for his instrumental role in founding ECOWAS in 1975. He acknowledged Gowon as the sole surviving founding father of the organization and praised his visionary contribution to the establishment of a regional institution that has championed integration and peace in West Africa.

The anniversary event commemorated the formation of ECOWAS, which was inaugurated in Lagos in 1975, with a symbolic reenactment of the original declaration held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Victoria Island.