MEMBERSHIP INFLUENCE AND THE ECONOMIC COMMISSION OF WEST AFRICAN STATES: THE CASE OF NIGERIA’S ROLE IN THE RESPONSE TO MALI’S COUP D’ETAT (2021)
Abstract
The study examined Nigeria’s role in ECOWAS’s response to Mali’s 2021 coup d’état, focusing on how state power shapes regional interventions in West Africa. It highlighted Nigeria’s leadership role in promoting stability and democracy within the sub-region. The research adopted a qualitative design. Data were sourced from journals, policy papers, and credible news reports. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the data.Findings revealed that Nigeria played a key role in driving ECOWAS’s sanctions and diplomatic actions against Mali’s military regime. However, its dominant influence also created internal divisions and perceptions of bias among smaller member states. The study concluded that while Nigeria remains central to ECOWAS’s crisis response, more inclusive leadership is essential for strengthening regional cooperation and legitimacy.
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