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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has committed to upholding democracy, enhancing economic integration, and reinforcing collective security in response to the increasing instability in the sub-region.
Leaders of the bloc made this commitment during the 68th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government, which took place at the Old Banquet Hall in the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Represented by his Vice, Kashim Shettima, President Bola Tinubu emphasized the importance of unity, cautioning that the bloc is at its weakest when divided.
“We do not share geography by chance; we share it by design, history, and kinship. We are a family united by memory, culture, struggle, and aspirations,” he stated.
The Nigerian leader clarified that while disagreements among member states are natural, they should not diminish the sense of belonging or shared destiny.
“Our unity is not merely transactional but foundational. Fraternity, not force, should define the future of our community,” he continued, pointing out terrorism, violent extremism, unconstitutional changes of government, transnational crime, arms proliferation, cyber insecurity, climate shocks, food insecurity, and irregular migration as common threats that necessitate coordinated responses.
“These challenges do not recognize borders. No single member state, regardless of its size, can achieve lasting stability in isolation,” he added.
Tinubu officially welcomed the heads of state to Abuja, expressing optimism that the summit would enhance trust, restore confidence, and reposition ECOWAS as a bloc grounded in solidarity, justice, and a shared destiny.
During discussions on governance and security, the summit marked a significant shift towards private-sector-led integration.
ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray announced the establishment of the ECOWAS Business Council, appointing Nigerian industrialist Alhaji Aliko Dangote as its inaugural chairman.
“Alhaji Aliko Dangote has graciously agreed to serve as the first chairperson of the ECOWAS Business Council,” said Touray.
The Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority and President of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio, described the summit as a pivotal moment, warning that West Africa is facing some of the most serious security, democratic, and economic challenges in its post-independence history.
“This session represents a defining moment for the future of over 400 million West Africans,” Bio remarked, noting that the summit coincides with ECOWAS’ Golden Jubilee.
DAILY POST reports that the President attended the 68th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of ECOWAS?
The main purpose of ECOWAS is to promote economic integration, defend democracy, and enhance collective security among its member states in West Africa.
Who is the current chairman of the ECOWAS Business Council?
The current chairman of the ECOWAS Business Council is Alhaji Aliko Dangote, a prominent Nigerian industrialist.
What issues are being addressed at the ECOWAS summit?
The ECOWAS summit addresses governance, security challenges, and the need for private-sector-led economic integration in the region.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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