By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

Former Chief of Army Staff and ex-Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd), has called for deeper regional cooperation among West African nations, highlighting the link between security and economic development in the subregion.

Buratai made the call on Friday while chairing the 24th Annual Symposium organised to mark the 43rd memorial anniversary of Malam Aminu Kano, held at the Sa’adu Zungur Auditorium, Mambayya House, Kano.

Speaking on the theme, “ECOWAS and Regional Peace in West Africa: The Security and Economic Implications for Nigeria,” he noted that West Africa continues to face challenges related to security, governance, and economic integration.

He observed that recent political developments in parts of the region have implications for democratic governance and social stability.

“When the ballot is silenced by the bullet, the talakawa are the first to suffer,” he said.

Buratai highlighted issues such as terrorism, arms smuggling, and human trafficking, noting that they require coordinated regional responses, including enhanced intelligence sharing and joint efforts among ECOWAS member states.

“We cannot address these challenges in isolation. They require collective responses,” he added.

On the economic front, he pointed to intra-regional trade, non-tariff barriers, and progress toward integration initiatives such as a single currency as areas requiring sustained attention.

According to him, Nigeria’s economic development is closely connected to that of neighbouring countries.

“A prosperous West Africa can serve as a stabilising force and a market for growth,” he stated.

He also encouraged Nigeria to continue engaging in efforts that promote democratic governance and regional stability.

Paying tribute to Malam Aminu Kano, Buratai described the late political figure as an advocate for social justice and democratic values, noting the continued relevance of his ideas.

“Malam Aminu Kano was not just a politician; he was a movement. He stood for the talakawa and for a just society,” he said.

He called on governments, civil society, and academic institutions to strengthen the implementation of regional policies to ensure tangible benefits for citizens.

Buratai further urged political leaders to reflect values such as accountability and service, while encouraging young people to engage in regional integration through education, trade, and collaboration.

The symposium, organised by the Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Studies, brought together academics, government officials, security personnel, and civil society actors to discuss regional peace and development.

He concluded by emphasising the importance of unity in the subregion, quoting Aminu Kano: “We must learn to live together as brothers, or perish together as fools.”