Buhari misses ECOWAS 50th Anniversary, cites medical check-up in UK
By Kunle Sanni
Former President Muhammadu Buhari was absent from the 50th anniversary celebration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held in Lagos on Wednesday, citing a routine medical check-up in the United Kingdom as the reason for his absence.
The landmark event, commemorating five decades since the founding of ECOWAS in Lagos in 1975, featured a symbolic reenactment of the original treaty signing at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island.
In a letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Buhari extended his congratulations to the regional bloc while expressing regret over his absence.
“Regrettably, as Your Excellency is aware, I am currently in the United Kingdom undergoing routine medical check-ups and therefore unable to attend this historic event,” the former leader stated.
Buhari praised ECOWAS for its achievements and resilience over the past 50 years, applauding the commitment of member states to regional unity and cooperation.
“I congratulate Your Excellency and other Heads of State and Government on the attainment of this Golden Jubilee by ECOWAS,” he wrote.
The former president also paid tribute to General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s former Head of State and the only surviving founding father of ECOWAS, acknowledging his instrumental role in the creation of the bloc.
