The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, has called on the ECOWAS Parliament to work towards realising the collective vision of a strong, economic and secured and united West Africa.
Delivering a keynote address at the First Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament in Abuja, Akpabio emphasized the need for unity and solidarity among member states to overcome the region’s challenges and achieve its aspirations.
“We are gathered here as representatives of a proud and diverse region, united by a common dream – a West Africa that rises to its full potential, a continent that stands tall on the global stage,” Akpabio said.
“We must remind ourselves of the foundational vision of ECOWAS – a vision of a united, economically robust, and politically stable West Africa.”
Akpabio highlighted the challenges facing the region, including economic instability, security threats, and the need for good governance.
He emphasised the importance of a unified regional currency, economic reforms, and investment in modern infrastructure to enhance the region’s global competitiveness.
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“Economic stability cannot flourish without political stability,” Akpabio noted.
“We must remain vigilant in defending our democratic institutions, promoting good governance, and ensuring that the rule of law prevails in every corner of our region.”
The Senate President also stressed the need for ECOWAS to strengthen its voice in international forums and demand fair treatment in global trade, finance, and climate negotiations.
“We must be united in our approach, for as the African proverb goes, ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,’” he said.
Akpabio, therefore, urged the ECOWAS Parliament to work tirelessly towards realizing the collective vision of a prosperous, peaceful, and united West Africa.
“Let us transform our challenges into opportunities and our aspirations into the achievements. The road ahead may be long, but our steps are measured and our destination is clear – a prosperous, peaceful, and united West Africa,” he said.
Also, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, while, highlighting the key issues affecting the region, stressed the significance of the ECOWAS Golden Jubilee celebration, marking 50 years since the organization’s founding.
Touray also informed the parliament that ECOWAS will commence direct discussions with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger on the methodology of negotiations regarding their withdrawal from the Community.
“The position of ECOWAS is that the separation of the three countries should not come at the expense of the community citizens”, he stressed.
The President highlighted the successful launch of the ECOWAS Golden Jubilee celebration in Accra on April 22, 2025.
“Further activities will take place across member states, including a major event in Lagos on May 28, 2025, to commemorate the signing of the ECOWAS Treaty in 1975.”
“This celebration will not only be a moment of rejoicing but above all a moment of reflection and introspection on achievements and prospects.”
“A summit will be held to agree on a compact for the Community’s future, preceded by stakeholder discussions and reflections on the past 50 years of ECOWAS’ achievements and challenges.”
“While celebrating achievements, the region will reflect deeply on what has worked well and what has not worked well over the past fifty years.”
“The Parliament occupies a strategic position in the integration process, and as representatives of the people, their role is important not only in terms of representing the views of Community citizens but also in explaining to them the efforts of the Community to improve their wellbeing.”
He welcomed the initiatives of the Parliament on unity and social cohesion, including a recent Resolution and the Banjul Appeal of April 28, 2025.
“The ECOWAS Golden Jubilee Celebration will continue with a major event in Lagos on May 28, 2025, and a closing ceremony in Togo, as decided by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.”
Touray expressed deep appreciation for the dynamism and excellence of relations between the Commission and Parliament, congratulating the Speaker and distinguished colleagues on their leadership.
NIGERIAN TRIBUNE