Regional Crises: ECOWAS needs Urgent Reform says the Speaker

Raphael Oni

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament Speaker, Rt. Hon. Memounatou Ibrahima, has urged for swift reforms to tackle the numerous crises plaguing the West African region.

Ibrahima made the call at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Third Extra-Ordinary Session and Second Parliamentary Seminar in Lomé, Togo, citing the region’s daunting challenges, including floods, terrorism, violent extremism, and irregular migration. “Our region is ravaged by crises. ECOWAS must speed up reforms to consolidate democracy and good governance,” Ibrahima emphasized.

ECOWAS will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025, having been established on May 28, 1975, in Lagos, Nigeria, to promote economic cooperation and development among member states.Dr. George Agyekum Donkor, President of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), stressed the importance of strengthening infrastructure and investment priorities to unlock regional opportunities.

Togolese Minister of Human Rights, Barrister Pacome Yawovi Missiame Amenyo Adjourouvi, highlighted the need for human rights protection to promote peace and opportunities for citizens. The ECOWAS Parliament will consider the 2025-2027 budget and examine the implementation of the 2023 budget and 2024 mid-term budget. A symposium on “Empowering Women through Financial Inclusion” will also be held to promote economic empowerment.

As ECOWAS navigates these challenges, Ibrahima’s call for reforms resonates strongly. With collective effort and commitment, the region can overcome its crises and achieve peace, stability, and prosperity.

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