ECOWAS Chairman Tinubu presents a comprehensive report at the AU meeting, highlighting progress in security, economics, and social development. Challenges including member withdrawals addressed. Tinubu emphasizes dialogue with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. Plans announced for a special summit on ECOWAS's future.
President Bola Tinubu, in his capacity as ECOWAS chairman, presented a comprehensive state of the community report at the African Union's mid-year coordination meeting in Accra, Ghana. The gathering, themed "Educate and Skill Africa for the 21st Century," brought together key African leaders and regional bodies.
Tinubu highlighted ECOWAS's multifaceted approach to regional development and security. He emphasized the activation of a standby force to counter-terrorism and ongoing efforts to explore funding options. The community has actively supported member states in improving electoral processes, with recent missions to Senegal and Togo deemed successful.
On the economic front, Tinubu reported progress in consolidating free trade areas, customs unions, and common markets. He noted that thirteen member states have ratified the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement, signaling a commitment to broader African economic integration.
ECOWAS has also made strides in humanitarian efforts, allocating $9 million to assist refugees and internally displaced persons. In education, the establishment of regional academic networks aims to equip youth with practical skills and harmonize education systems across West Africa.
The president outlined advancements in energy, agriculture, and environmental governance. Notable initiatives include the Regional Off-Grid Electricity Access Project and efforts to implement the Paris Agreement and establish a regional carbon market.
However, Tinubu acknowledged the challenges facing ECOWAS, including member state withdrawals, geopolitical rivalries, and terrorism. He assured that dialogue would continue with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to maintain regional unity.
The ECOWAS chairman concluded by announcing plans for a special extraordinary summit to discuss the community's future, demonstrating a commitment to addressing ongoing challenges and fostering regional cooperation.
