Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has called for significant reforms within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to help the regional body adapt to growing internal and external challenges.
Speaking during a meeting in Accra, Ghana, where ECOWAS leaders gathered to address the withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, Tinubu stressed the importance of unity and proactive leadership.
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He encouraged member states to revive the spirit of pan-Africanism that led to the founding of ECOWAS and reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to the principles of democracy, rule of law, good governance, and regional cooperation.
“These principles are not just ideals—they are the building blocks for peace, development, and human dignity,” Tinubu said.
He urged continued dialogue with the three departing countries to promote reconciliation and potential reintegration, but also emphasized the immediate need for institutional reforms within ECOWAS.
“There is an urgent need for bold and far-reaching reforms to improve the effectiveness, relevance, and trustworthiness of our institutions,” he said.
Tinubu also highlighted the importance of youth empowerment, calling on member countries to prioritize education in their development agendas.
He further advocated for progress toward a single regional currency and enhanced infrastructure connectivity to strengthen economic ties across West Africa.
