Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional integration, democratic governance, peace, security and sustainable development across West Africa, with Vice President Kashim Shettima calling for deeper cooperation among member states to tackle the region’s growing challenges.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 69th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Sierra Leone, Shettima reiterated Nigeria’s support for the implementation of the ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration, describing it as a roadmap for building a more resilient, prosperous, inclusive and people-centred West Africa.
The Vice President commended the Government and people of Sierra Leone for hosting the summit and congratulated President Julius Maada Bio on the successful completion of his tenure as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government. He also praised the inauguration of the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre, describing it as a landmark project that would strengthen regional diplomacy and cooperation.
Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for deeper economic integration through increased intra-regional trade, industrialisation, improved infrastructure, investment promotion, food security and the gradual implementation of the ECO single currency.
He stressed that regional prosperity depends on eliminating trade barriers, promoting the free movement of persons, goods and services, and creating a business-friendly environment that attracts investment across the sub-region.
On regional security, the Vice President reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to constitutional governance, the rule of law and zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government. He noted that sustainable development can only flourish in an atmosphere of peace and stability and pledged Nigeria’s support for strengthening the ECOWAS Standby Force, enhancing intelligence sharing, expanding counter-terrorism cooperation and reinforcing preventive diplomacy.
Shettima also underscored the importance of digital transformation, innovation, science and technology in driving economic growth, while calling for increased investment in women and young people as key drivers of the region’s future.
He further advocated stronger ECOWAS institutions anchored on transparency, accountability, efficiency and sustainable financing to improve public confidence and ensure the effective implementation of regional policies.
Acknowledging the changing global geopolitical environment, the Vice President urged member states to preserve the unity and relevance of ECOWAS through dialogue, solidarity and constructive engagement, while calling on regional leaders to remain committed to the shared vision of a peaceful, integrated and prosperous West Africa.
Addressing the recent Afrophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa, Shettima condemned the violence and called for a united African response to combat xenophobia and safeguard the rights and dignity of all Africans.
He disclosed that the Federal Government had successfully evacuated 1,490 Nigerians affected by the attacks and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to working with regional and continental institutions to address the crisis.
The Vice President also urged member states, development partners, the private sector, civil society, women and youth to support the effective implementation of the ECOWAS Compact, stressing that collective action remains critical to achieving lasting peace, security, prosperity and sustainable development across West Africa.
