ECOWAS leaders convened in Lagos to address the need for regional unity following the exits of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Speaker Hon. Hadja Memounatou Ibrahim urged constructive dialogue, while Senator Jibrin Barau and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu highlighted the significance of collaboration, integration, and addressing common challenges. The focus remains on fostering a prosperous and inclusive West Africa as ECOWAS celebrates its 50th anniversary and the Parliament its 25th.

The Speaker of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament, Hon. Hadja Memounatou Ibrahim, has called for enhanced regional unity among member states in light of the recent exits of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from the organization. This appeal was made during the ‘1st Parliamentary Seminar on ECOWAS @50 & Parliament @25’ in Lagos, focusing on achieving regional integration.

During the session, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, praised President Bola Tinubu for his strong leadership and commitment to advancing the West African region. Barau referred to President Tinubu as an inspiring figure in promoting solidarity and securing regional progress as the Chairman of the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos underscored the need for ECOWAS member states to recommit to regional ideals aimed at fostering a peaceful and united West Africa. He emphasized the importance of removing trade barriers and facilitating free movement within the region to ensure equitable opportunities for all citizens.

Hon. Ibrahim also reflected on ECOWAS’s 50-year history, urging introspection regarding the foundational objectives and governance of the organization. She addressed the significance of the departures, characterizing them as a potential challenge to community integration that should be met with understanding and dialogue while upholding the shared values of West Africa.

Ibrahim encouraged continued bilateral and multilateral cooperation with Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso during their transition period from January to July 2025. She stated that this withdrawal should not diminish the community’s achievements and called on all member states to work diligently towards a united and inclusive ECOWAS.

Senator Barau also acknowledged the ECOWAS Parliament’s appreciation for President Tinubu’s dedication to regional integration efforts. He reiterated the vital role of cooperative strategies in overcoming shared challenges and fostering collective advancement.

President Sanwo-Olu highlighted the essential role of Lagos as an economic and cultural hub, advocating for strengthened institutions responsive to West Africa’s needs. He pointed to the importance of addressing critical issues such as economic development, climate change, and enhancing youth empowerment through education and job creation.

The theme of the seminar, ‘ECOWAS at 50, Parliament at 25,’ was noted as a representation of the shared journey towards regional cooperation and governance. Both leaders conveyed their commitment to deepening integration and ensuring that each state fully participates in the regional development agenda, thereby establishing a prosperous, peaceful, and inclusive West Africa.

In conclusion, the recent calls for strengthened unity within ECOWAS reflect the urgent need for cooperation among member states following the exits of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. The discussions highlighted the importance of dialogue and continued collaboration to promote regional integration. Leaders emphasized the need for a renewed commitment to shared values and cooperative strategies that enhance stability and prosperity across West Africa.

Original Source: www.arise.tv

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