The ECOWAS Parliament has concluded its first extraordinary session of 2026, reaffirming its commitment to advancing regional integration, strengthening democratic governance, and accelerating implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The three-day session, hosted in Nigeria, ended with renewed calls for closer collaboration among member states to confront persistent security threats, economic vulnerabilities, and climate-related challenges across West Africa.
In her closing remarks, the Speaker of Parliament, Mémounatou Ibrahima, expressed appreciation to the Nigerian government and people for hosting the legislative gathering. She commended the administration of Bola Tinubu for providing a conducive environment for deliberations. The Speaker also acknowledged the active participation of the ECOWAS Commission, the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, and the ECOWAS Office of the Auditor-General, describing their contributions as a demonstration of institutional cohesion within the bloc.
During the session, lawmakers examined the strategic importance of the AfCFTA and identified key implementation challenges across the subregion. Participants highlighted concerns over persistent non-tariff trade barriers, slow harmonization of legal and regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure deficits that continue to constrain cross-border commerce.
The Parliament further warned of the risk of marginalizing women, youth, and informal sector operators if targeted policies are not strengthened to promote inclusive economic growth among member states.
At the close of deliberations, legislators adopted the Parliament’s 2026 Programme of Activities, structured around four priority pillars: citizen participation, institutional strengthening, peace and governance, and policy facilitation. Members described the programme as a practical roadmap aimed at building a more citizen-focused regional parliament capable of delivering measurable developmental outcomes.
The session also endorsed the 2026 programme of the ECOWAS Forum of Women Parliamentarians, reaffirming the pivotal role of women legislators in driving regional development and economic empowerment.
In its final communiqué, the Parliament urged member states to translate legislative resolutions and policy recommendations into concrete reforms and inclusive development initiatives at the national level, emphasizing that West Africa’s long-term prosperity depends on strengthened political unity, deeper economic cooperation, and sustained democratic governance.
