ECOWAS officials are advocating for stronger regional unity following the exit of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Speaker Hon. Hadja Memounatou Ibrahim highlighted the shifting political context in these nations, while Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership. Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the need for cooperation and trade in achieving a prosperous West African region, marking ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary with calls for continued commitment to integration and dialogue.
The Speaker of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament, Hon. Hadja Memounatou Ibrahim, emphasized the need for stronger regional unity and ongoing bilateral relations among member states following the exit of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from the organization in January 2024. During the ‘1st Parliamentary Seminar on ECOWAS @50 & Parliament @25’ in Lagos, she addressed the theme of regional integration.
Ibrahim reflected on the considerable changes experienced in the political and security contexts within the departing nations, highlighting the instability and challenges related to governance and resource management. She urged that this withdrawal should be viewed as an opportunity for enhanced dialogue and cooperation while advocating for solidarity and collaboration among the remaining ECOWAS member states.
Moreover, Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, commended President Bola Tinubu for his leadership in advancing West African unity. He expressed gratitude for Tinubu’s strategic vision in promoting regional stability, economic integration, and democratic governance during the opening of the 2025 First Extraordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos reiterated the importance of recommitting to the ideals of regional integration for a peaceful and prosperous West Africa. He urged member states to remove trade barriers and ensure free movement, emphasizing a commitment to making the region equitable and inclusive for all citizens.
Sanwo-Olu asserted the need to strengthen institutions, deepen economic integration, and empower youth through education and innovation. Reflecting on the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS and the 25th of the ECOWAS Parliament, he acknowledged their roles in fostering cooperation, mediating conflicts, and promoting governance, thereby shaping the destiny of West Africa.
In conclusion, the calls for enhanced unity and cooperation among ECOWAS member states are significant in light of the recent departures of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. The leadership of figures like President Bola Tinubu and the commitment of local leaders such as Governor Sanwo-Olu highlight the importance of ongoing dialogue and collaboration in addressing regional challenges. Moving forward, the focus must remain on fostering integration, economic cooperation, and the shared vision of a prosperous West Africa.
Original Source: www.arise.tv
