The Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament called for enhanced regional unity following Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso’s planned exit from the organization. Leaders at a recent seminar in Lagos emphasized the importance of cooperation and the need for ongoing dialogue despite this withdrawal, highlighting ECOWAS’s commitment to regional integration and stability. The discussions underscored the significance of addressing challenges to ensure a united West Africa.
The Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Hon. Hadja Memounatou Ibrahim, has urged for heightened regional unity among member countries, especially in light of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso’s decision to withdraw from the organization starting January 2024. Her remarks came during the ‘1st Parliamentary Seminar on ECOWAS @50 & Parliament @25,’ held in Lagos. She emphasized the importance of maintaining bilateral relations despite their exit, expressing the need for strategies that foster cooperation and understanding.
Further advocating for unity, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, praised President Bola Tinubu for his leadership in promoting regional advancement. Barau characterized Tinubu as a source of inspiration in the sub-region, highlighting his contributions to achieving stability and economic growth across West Africa.
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, called upon ECOWAS members to recommit to regional integration and to work towards creating a prosperous and peaceful West Africa. His statements resonated with the celebrations marking fifty years of ECOWAS and twenty-five years of the ECOWAS Parliament, underscoring the need for inclusive and equitable development.
Speaker Ibrahim reflected on the need for ECOWAS to reassess its goals and governance amidst the changing political landscapes in the withdrawing countries. She acknowledged the serious political and security challenges faced by these nations and emphasized that their exit should serve as a catalyst for renewed dialogue and bilateral cooperation.
The call for a transition period until July 2025 was highlighted as an opportunity for continued mediation, ensuring that the departure does not impede ECOWAS’s achievements. She advocated for ongoing communication and collaboration despite the withdrawal.
Senator Barau reiterated his commitment to cooperative efforts and regional unity among ECOWAS members during the opening of the seminar. He emphasized that through joint decision-making, member states can achieve shared objectives that advance the region’s overall progress and prosperity.
Governor Sanwo-Olu elaborated on the importance of removing barriers to trade and ensuring free movement within the West African corridor. He stated that fostering a prosperous and peaceful region required addressing the underlying causes of conflict and promoting dialogue, as well as empowering youth through education and job creation.
In closing, Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed pride in Lagos’ significant role in supporting the ECOWAS mission. He reinforced the collective need to face regional challenges and unlock the potential of West Africa through collaboration and integration, emphasizing that the journey thus far has reflected the resilience and ambition of the people of the region.
The seminar theme underscored the significant contributions of ECOWAS and its Parliament in shaping West Africa’s future by promoting democracy, economic cooperation, and conflict resolution, illustrating the value of unity in overcoming challenges within the region.
The discussions at the ECOWAS seminar highlighted the crucial need for regional unity and cooperation, especially following the withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Key leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue and collaboration among member states to address challenges and foster progress. Through strategic vision and commitment, ECOWAS can navigate its complexities and promote a resilient and prosperous West Africa.
Original Source: www.arise.tv
