The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Touray, has called on member states to unite in confronting the region’s growing integration challenges.
Speaking at the 37th Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Administration and Finance Committee (AFC) on Sunday in Abuja, Touray stressed the need for solidarity, unity, and fraternity to protect and advance the bloc’s integration efforts.
Touray, who was represented by ECOWAS Vice President Mrs Damtien Tchintchibidja, urged the bloc to reflect on its financial difficulties and take strategic steps to strengthen its institutions. He explained that the meeting would assess the mid-term progress of ECOWAS decisions, programmes, and activities, especially amid financial constraints.
He pointed out that the withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS poses a threat to the community’s 50-year integration achievements. He therefore tasked members with mitigating the negative impact of their exit and reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to progress.
Touray highlighted that ECOWAS now faces an existential crisis that demands honest dialogue and firm action. He said the commission plans to convene a summit soon, following consultations with women, youth, and other stakeholders, to chart a new path for institutional, organisational, political, and security reforms.
“ECOWAS belongs to all of us,” Touray stated. “Our collective commitment and solidarity are key to building a peaceful, stable, and prosperous future for our region.”
Also speaking at the meeting, ECOWAS Commissioner for Internal Services, Prof. Nazifi Darma, announced the acquisition of new communications infrastructure to modernise operations. He urged member states to develop innovative, self-reliant financing strategies in light of declining donor support.
AFC Chairman, Ambassador Olawale Awe, stressed the urgency of addressing staffing shortages and revenue challenges, especially after the withdrawal of the Sahel states. He warned that ECOWAS must act swiftly to maintain momentum and meet regional demands.
The meeting drew attendance from ECOWAS commissioners, parliamentarians, court officials, resident representatives, and heads of institutions and agencies.
