ECOWAS Advocates Unity and Bilateral Relations Amid Member Withdrawal

ECOWAS advocates for unity and continued bilateral relations with Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso after their departure from the regional body. Hon. Hadja Memounatou Ibrahim emphasized the importance of dialogue at a recent seminar. Leaders, including Senators Barau and Sanwo-Olu, highlighted the need for cooperation and regional integration to address challenges and achieve prosperity in West Africa.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is advocating for enhanced unity and bilateral ties between member states, particularly with Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, who withdrew from the regional organization in January 2024. This appeal was made by Hon. Hadja Memounatou Ibrahim during a seminar commemorating ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary and the Parliament’s 25th anniversary, where she emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation despite the withdrawal.

Senator Jibrin Barau praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and commitment to stabilizing the West African region. As the Chairman of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, Barau referred to Tinubu as a source of inspiration, acknowledging his efforts to enhance regional cooperation and economic integration, reinforcing the solidarity among the countries in the region.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu urged member states to recommit to the principles of regional integration and the vision of a peaceful, prosperous, and united West Africa. He emphasized the need for removing trade barriers and fostering free movement across the West African corridor as key steps toward achieving these goals and creating equitable opportunities for all citizens.

At the seminar, the speakers reflected on ECOWAS’s journey, citing its role in promoting economic cooperation, conflict mediation, and democratic governance in the region. The establishment of the ECOWAS Parliament has reinforced this vision, creating a platform for dialogue and advocacy for integration, citizen’s rights, and regional policy advancement over the past 25 years.

Ibrahim highlighted ECOWAS’s potential for resilience and reform as it approaches its 50th anniversary, calling for a pause to assess progress and objectives in light of the recent withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. She expressed hope that the transition period provided would facilitate continued cooperation and prevent weakening of regional achievements, advocating for bilateral and multilateral approaches to benefit the populations involved.

Both Barau and Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed their commitment to fostering development and cooperation within ECOWAS. They recognized that collective actions and collaborative decision-making are critical to advancing shared goals, encouraging unity and solidarity among member states to improve the lives of their citizens.

In conclusion, the ECOWAS leadership emphasizes the necessity of unity and cooperation among West African states, especially in light of the recent withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. The commitment of key leaders like President Tinubu and Governor Sanwo-Olu to regional integration serves as a foundation for overcoming challenges. The ongoing dialogue and collective efforts are crucial for achieving a stable, prosperous, and integrated West Africa.

Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com