As the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) marked its 50th anniversary, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu delivered a strong message urging deeper integration, shared prosperity, and reforms to restore the bloc’s regional influence.
In a speech that touched on the past, present, and future of the organization, Tinubu, who also serves as ECOWAS Chairman, called on member states to put aside narrow interests and work towards common goals that benefit all West Africans.
Here is a highlight of what President Tinubu said:
- Unity is non-negotiable: Tinubu emphasized that ECOWAS must stand together to overcome political instability, economic hardship, and security threats.
- Call for return of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger: He urged the military-led governments in the three countries that recently exited ECOWAS to reconsider and rejoin the bloc for the sake of regional solidarity.
- Reaffirmed democratic values: Tinubu noted that ECOWAS has a history of protecting democracy and must continue to uphold it in all member states.
- Stronger institutions needed: He stressed the need for institutional reforms within ECOWAS, urging a system that prioritizes collective progress over national self-interest.
- Enhanced economic integration: He called for removing barriers to trade and investment, making the ECOWAS market more efficient and beneficial to its citizens.
- Security cooperation: Tinubu pushed for joint efforts to combat terrorism and transnational crime that threaten stability in the region.
- Focus on youth and innovation: He proposed policies that support young people, technology, and innovation as tools for regional development
