President Bola Tinubu, in his concluding address as Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), expressed deep concern over the escalating security challenges plaguing the region and the sluggish operationalization of the ECOWAS Standby Force. Addressing the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Abuja, Nigeria, President Tinubu emphasized the urgent need for the regional body to transition from strategic planning to concrete action in combating the growing menace of terrorism and transnational crime. He stressed the interconnected nature of these threats, highlighting the sophisticated cross-border criminal networks that operate with impunity, disregarding national boundaries. This interconnectedness, he argued, necessitates a unified and collaborative approach, emphasizing the inadequacy of isolated national efforts in tackling these complex security challenges.
The outgoing ECOWAS Chairman underscored the importance of the ECOWAS Standby Force as a critical instrument in the fight against insecurity. However, he expressed worry over the slow pace of its activation, urging member states to expedite the process and transform the force from a conceptual framework into a fully operational entity. This delay, he implied, hinders the region’s ability to respond effectively to the evolving security landscape and emboldens criminal elements operating across borders. Tinubu’s call for expedited action reflects a growing sense of urgency within the regional bloc to address the escalating threats and protect the stability and security of member states.
Reflecting on his tenure as ECOWAS Chairman, President Tinubu highlighted key achievements that have strengthened the regional bloc’s security architecture. A notable achievement is the completion of the ECOWAS Military Logistics Depot in Lungi, Sierra Leone. This strategic facility enhances the region’s logistical capabilities and strengthens its capacity to deploy forces rapidly and effectively in response to security threats. Further solidifying Nigeria’s commitment to regional cooperation, Tinubu announced the country’s undertaking to provide sea-lift and air-lift arrangements for ECOWAS operations. This commitment underscores Nigeria’s leadership role within the regional bloc and its dedication to bolstering the collective security efforts of member states. He also highlighted Nigeria’s recent signing of the Sixth Agreement with the African Union in Addis Ababa, demonstrating a broader commitment to continental peace and security.
Beyond security matters, President Tinubu also addressed the political landscape within ECOWAS, expressing optimism about the potential return of suspended member states – Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger – to the regional fold. He emphasized his diplomatic efforts during his chairmanship to engage with these countries and facilitate their reintegration. This diplomatic outreach reflects ECOWAS’ commitment to maintaining unity and cohesion within the region and finding pathways for suspended members to return to full participation, upholding democratic principles and constitutional governance.
Addressing the economic front, President Tinubu advocated for deeper economic integration within the region, emphasizing the need to unlock the vast economic potential of West Africa. He lamented the low levels of intra-regional trade, despite the region’s potential to become a significant economic powerhouse. To address this, he called for the creation of an enabling environment for businesses, empowerment of the private sector, and the fostering of innovation. These measures, he argued, are crucial for stimulating economic growth, creating jobs, and improving the living standards of citizens across the region.
Furthermore, President Tinubu underscored the importance of infrastructure development as a catalyst for economic growth and regional integration. He urged for the swift execution of key regional infrastructure projects, including the West African Gas Pipeline, the West African Power Pool, and the Abidjan–Lagos Corridor Highway. These projects, he emphasized, hold the potential to transform the region’s infrastructure landscape, facilitate trade and connectivity, and unlock significant economic opportunities. This multifaceted approach to regional development, encompassing security, political stability, and economic integration, reflects a comprehensive vision for a stronger and more prosperous West Africa.
