By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to regional integration, democratic governance, peace, security and sustainable development across West Africa at the 69th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held in Lungi, Sierra Leone.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the summit, said Nigeria remains committed to implementing the ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration, describing it as a strategic roadmap for building a more resilient, prosperous, inclusive and people-centred West African community.
Shettima commended the Government and people of Sierra Leone for successfully hosting the summit and congratulated President Julius Maada Bio on completing his tenure as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority. He also praised the inauguration of the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre, describing it as a boost to regional diplomacy and cooperation.
The Vice President reiterated Nigeria’s support for deeper economic integration through increased intra-regional trade, industrialization, infrastructure development, investment promotion, food security and the gradual implementation of the ECO single currency. He stressed that removing trade barriers and promoting the free movement of persons, goods and services would strengthen regional prosperity and attract investment.
On regional security, Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to constitutional governance, the rule of law and zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government. He called for stronger collaboration in intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism efforts, preventive diplomacy and the strengthening of the ECOWAS Standby Force to address security challenges across the sub-region.
He also urged greater investment in digital transformation, innovation, science and technology as catalysts for economic growth, while advocating increased support for women and youth as key drivers of development. According to him, stronger ECOWAS institutions built on transparency, accountability, efficiency and sustainable financing are essential to improving public confidence and implementing regional decisions.
Acknowledging evolving global geopolitical realities, the Vice President called on member states to preserve the unity and relevance of ECOWAS through dialogue, solidarity and constructive engagement, urging leaders to remain committed to building a peaceful, integrated and prosperous West Africa.
Shettima also condemned the recent Afrophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa, calling for a united continental response against xenophobia and the protection of the rights and dignity of all Africans. He disclosed that the Federal Government had evacuated 1,490 Nigerians affected by the attacks and pledged continued engagement with regional and continental institutions to address the situation.
He concluded by urging ECOWAS member states, regional institutions, development partners, the private sector, civil society, women and youth to work together to ensure the successful implementation of the ECOWAS Compact, stressing that collective action remains vital to achieving lasting peace, security and sustainable development in the region.
