Africa : Facing ECOWAS Sanctions, Niger Asserts Trade Sovereignty
A few hours ago, Beninese authorities officially announced the lifting of the measure suspending the importation of goods destined for Niger at the port of Cotonou. Despite the continued ECOWAS sanctions, Nigerien authorities categorically refuse to conduct their port operations through the Beninese port.
Since access to the port of Cotonou was prohibited for Niger, the country has resorted to other ports and corridors to ensure its supply, a step it considers an assertion of its national sovereignty. Mobilization remains constant against measures deemed unjust aimed at isolating the country.
Through an official statement, the Nigerien Chamber of Commerce reminded economic operators that ECOWAS sanctions, which it deems illegal, unfair, and unjust, remain in effect. These sanctions, related to border closures, are intended to block Niger’s commercial transactions.
According to CNSP leaders, as long as ECOWAS does not order the lifting of sanctions, Niger will show no interest in importing goods from the port of Cotonou to Niamey.
Niger no longer intends to maintain commercial relations with partners it considers hypocritical. It is worth noting that Benin is one of the countries involved in the ECOWAS military attack against Niger.
Nigerien authorities are urged to exercise the utmost vigilance towards certain partners. Although the situation is undoubtedly challenging, the Nigerien people are called upon to show sacrifice in order to achieve total liberation.
