ECOWAS Leaders Advocate for Enhanced Unity Amid Withdrawal of Member States

ECOWAS leaders, including Hon. Hadja Memounatou Ibrahim and Senator Jibrin Barau, called for enhanced regional unity following the withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. They emphasized the importance of understanding the implications of this decision while maintaining bilateral relations. Celebrating significant anniversaries, officials reiterated their commitment to regional integration, peace, and prosperity in West Africa.

The Speaker of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament, Hon. Hadja Memounatou Ibrahim, stressed the importance of heightened regional unity among member states and the need to sustain bilateral relationships with Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso after their withdrawal from ECOWAS in January 2024. Her remarks came during the ‘1st Parliamentary Seminar on ECOWAS @50 & Parliament @25’ held in Lagos, aimed at advancing regional integration.

In his address, Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, praised President Bola Tinubu for his dedicated leadership in promoting the welfare of the West African region. He referred to Tinubu as a source of inspiration for the sub-region, further underscoring the necessity for member states to focus on unity and cooperation.

Speaker Ibrahim noted that as ECOWAS celebrates its 50th anniversary this year and the Community Parliament marks 25 years, it is essential to reflect on the organization’s objectives and governance. She recognized January’s departure of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger as a challenge to regional integration, but emphasized the need to understand the reasons behind this decision, stressing that it should not sever the shared values of West African nations.

Ibrahim expressed the hope that a transition period from January to July 2025, as decided by the Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS, would facilitate continued mediation efforts, ensuring that the departure of these countries would not adversely affect community achievements. She called on neighboring nations to pursue bilateral and multilateral cooperation that benefits their populations.

Barau reiterated the commitment of the ECOWAS Parliament to support Tinubu’s initiatives aimed at enhancing stability, economic integration, and democratic governance in the region. He emphasized the need for collective efforts towards prosperity and regional progress, highlighting the parliament’s dedication to integration among member states.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urged ECOWAS member states to renew their commitment to regional integration and work towards a united, peaceful, and prosperous West Africa. He called for the elimination of trade barriers to promote free movement and develop an inclusive society where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.

Sanwo-Olu praised the significance of Lagos as the economic and cultural hub of West Africa, highlighting its role in promoting regional integration. He expressed the state’s willingness to collaborate with ECOWAS and its member states to address the challenges facing the region, including security and economic development.

Reflecting on the 50 years of ECOWAS and 25 years of the ECOWAS Parliament, Sanwo-Olu affirmed that these organizations have been pivotal in reshaping West Africa’s future. He emphasized their roles in fostering economic cooperation, mediating conflicts, and promoting democratic governance, showcasing the positive outcomes of united efforts in the pursuit of a common vision.

In summary, the calls for intensified regional unity and cooperation by ECOWAS leaders emphasize the need for member states to work together despite the recent challenges. The importance of understanding the context behind the withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso underlines a commitment to unity and collaboration. Both leadership and community involvement remain crucial for achieving regional integration, as expressed during commemorative events marking the milestones of ECOWAS and its Parliament.

Original Source: www.arise.tv