Burkina Faso and Mali have officially boycotted the African Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit hosted by Nigeria in Abuja, a move that underscores escalating tensions among West African nations. The summit, which is taking place today, is aimed at fostering regional security cooperation amidst growing threats from extremist groups.
The absence of both countries marks a significant diplomatic rift, with Niger being the sole representative from the Accra Initiative, a security alliance formed to combat terrorism in the region. Niger was represented by Colonel Major Soumana Kalkoye, its defense attaché, highlighting its commitment to regional security dialogue.
This development follows a series of strained relations between Burkina Faso, Mali, and their West African neighbors, particularly over differing approaches to security and governance. Both nations have seen military coups in recent years and have shifted their foreign policy focus, aligning more closely with Russia and distancing themselves from traditional partners.
The boycott raises questions about the future of security collaboration in the region, particularly as violence from extremist groups continues to threaten stability. As previously reported, similar situations have unfolded in other parts of the world, where diplomatic boycotts have led to increased tensions and complicating efforts for dialogue and cooperation.
