In a recent address to mark the 48th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Alieu Tourey has highlighted unwavering commitments to inclusive and sustainable development of the region.
He expressed gratitude for the support of member state leaders who have remained steadfast in preserving the vision of the founding fathers and investing in essential resources to uphold the community.
However, the President acknowledged the pressing issues that continue to plague the region, particularly in the areas of peace, security, and stability.
Violent conflicts and terrorism persist, leading to loss of lives and property.
While successes have been achieved in countries such as Mali and Burkina Faso, the intensity of the violence remains a cause for concern.
The ECOWAS President strongly condemned these acts and extended sympathies to the affected families and authorities.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, he reiterated call for international support in the fight against terrorism and organized crime.
“The humanitarian crisis worsens not only due to conflict but also because of climate change and environmental degradation”.
“Moreover, the global economic crisis, reflected in skyrocketing food prices, further tests the resolve of ECOWAS for collective security and self-reliance”. He said.
Free movement of persons, goods, and services within the ECOWAS community continues to face obstacles such as artificial barriers, infrastructure deficits, tariffs, and non-tariff barriers.
To address these challenges, ECOWAS has set strategic objectives known as the “four by four” plan, aimed at tackling issues and seizing opportunities for growth and development in the region.
Under the strategic objective of enhancing peace and security, ECOWAS is implementing the Equus action plan against terrorism.
Efforts are underway to strengthen the Aqua standby force, combat the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, enhance member states’ capacity against cyber attacks, and operationalize the maritime security architecture.
ECOWAS is a regional organization of 15 West African countries established on 28 May 1975.
Its main goal is the promotion of the economic and political integration among its members.
