ECOWAS Leaders Pledge to Defend Democracy, Boost Economic Integration and Regional Security

Leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Sunday pledged to uphold democracy, strengthen collective security, and deepen economic integration amid rising instability across the region.

The commitment was made at the 68th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government at the Old Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, urged unity, noting that the bloc is weakest when divided. He said: “We do not share geography by accident; we share it by design, by history and kinship. A family bound by memory, culture, struggle and aspiration.”

Highlighting shared threats such as terrorism, violent extremism, unconstitutional changes of government, transnational crime, cyber insecurity, climate shocks, food insecurity, and irregular migration, Tinubu stressed that no single member state can achieve lasting stability alone. “Our unity is not transactional but foundational. Fraternity, not force, must define the future of our community,” he added.

ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray announced the launch of the ECOWAS Business Council, naming Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote as its pioneer chairman. “Given his vast experience across West Africa, the council will drive investment and economic integration in the region,” Touray said.

Sierra Leone’s President and ECOWAS Authority Chairman, Julius Maada Bio, described the summit as a historic crossroads for over 400 million West Africans. He warned that instability in any member state affects the entire region and confirmed plans to operationalise the ECOWAS Standby Force, including a 1,650-person counter-terrorism brigade by the end of 2026.

Bio condemned recent unconstitutional changes of government in Guinea-Bissau and the attempted coup in Benin, stating: “ECOWAS does not and will not compromise on democratic governance.” He praised Nigeria’s swift mobilisation of troops and air assets as a demonstration of the bloc’s resolve.

On economic integration, Bio highlighted efforts to eliminate trade barriers, harmonise policies, advance the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, and pursue a single regional currency by 2027. He also announced plans to abolish air transport taxes and reduce passenger and security charges by 25 per cent from January 1, 2026, to stimulate trade and mobility.

Bio concluded: “Our unity is not optional. It is our greatest asset. History shows that when ECOWAS acts together, we act effectively.”

The summit underscored ECOWAS’ commitment to democracy, regional stability, and practical, people-centred economic growth.

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