The President of Ghana, Dr John Mahama, has warned against isolating Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso following recent military takeovers, arguing that West Africa’s long-term stability depends on dialogue rather than exclusion.
Speaking on Monday in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Mahama said the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) must resist the temptation to sever ties with the Sahel countries that have withdrawn to form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), insisting that the region’s peoples are bound by history, geography and destiny.
Mahama spoke shortly after being conferred with the chieftaincy title Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, at a ceremony attended by business magnate Aliko Dangote, Osun State Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, prominent traditional rulers and public figures.
While acknowledging the political upheavals in the Sahel, Mahama cautioned against policies that could deepen regional fractures.
“Our sub-region is facing serious challenges. We all know what is happening in the Sahel states, where three of our members have decided to break away and form the AES,” he said.
“I believe we should not create chaos. God placed us in this region together for a purpose. Instead of ostracising our brothers, we must build bridges between ECOWAS and the Sahel states, encourage them, and continue to bring them back into the fold. Our destinies are tied together.”
His remarks come amid ongoing debates within ECOWAS over sanctions, security cooperation and diplomatic engagement with the military-led governments.
Mahama also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening relations between Ghana and Nigeria, describing the two countries as historically inseparable.
Referring to President Bola Tinubu as “an elder brother” and a long-time friend, the Ghanaian leader said bilateral cooperation would remain a priority under his leadership.
“As long as I am president, I will continue to bring these two countries together. Historically, we are the same people. As the Ooni said, there are people in Ghana who trace their origins to Ile-Ife,” Mahama noted.
He dedicated his chieftaincy title to President Tinubu, thanking him for years of friendship and support.
In a message delivered by his deputy, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke commended the Ooni for honouring Mahama, describing the Ghanaian president as a leader known for conflict resolution and democratic engagement.
“At a time when many are beating the drums of war, President Mahama chose engagement,” Adeleke said. “His mediation between ECOWAS and the Sahel region is a landmark decision. The legacy of ECOWAS must never be allowed to collapse.”
Earlier, Oba Ogunwusi described Mahama as a symbol of African unity, cultural continuity and reform, stressing that the continent’s shared heritage predates modern political boundaries.
“This palace is not new to you,” the monarch said. “You have been part of our journey for many years. Africa shares common roots beyond today’s borders, and leaders like you remind us of that truth.”
The ceremony formed part of a wider series of cultural and diplomatic engagements underscoring West Africa’s shared identity. Separately, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was also honoured with the title Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua during events marking the Ooni’s 10th coronation anniversary.
Mahama’s comments, delivered against this backdrop of symbolism and statecraft, highlight a growing call within the region for restraint, dialogue and conscience-driven leadership in responding to West Africa’s deepening political and security crises.
