As the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) marks its Golden Jubilee, the regional bloc stands at a historic crossroads —celebrating five decades of progress while confronting recent military incursions in the politics of member States.
Nigeria which is seen as the powerhouse of West Africa, is taking the centre stage at this defining moment with a reaffirmation of its commitment and leadership role in driving regional integration, economic development, and diplomatic reconciliation.
These among serval other were highlighted at a Press briefing in ahead of the celebration on Wednesday by the Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar in Abuja
The Minister detailed ambitious cross-border projects spearheaded by Nigerian diplomacy —from the transformative Abidjan – Lagos and Abidjan – Dakar trade corridors to a pioneering 15-nation gas pipeline.
Amid the 50th anniversary celebrations, ECOWAS is grappling with the fallout of political upheavals in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger — each under military rule, and have formally exited the bloc after prolonged diplomatic tensions and refusals to restore civilian governance
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Despite these challenges, Tuggar expressed cautious optimism about the trio’s eventual return.
Insecurity perpetrated by insurgents and terrorists has been a major headache of the sub region. The Nigerian Foreign Minister explained that ammunition used by these characters found their ways to the ECOWAS countries following the collapse of Libya, and assured that notwithstanding the genesis, that ECOWAS is not folding its arms to stop the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
According to him, on the proposed regional economic integration, no ECOWAS country has been able to meet the criteria set towards achieving a single currency yet.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
