Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to strengthen its defence of constitutional order and deepen political inclusivity as the region confronts rising instability.
Speaking on Wednesday at the opening of the 95th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers in Abuja, Odumegwu-Ojukwu warned that unconstitutional changes of government, prolonged political transitions, and growing governance deficits are undermining democratic stability across West Africa.
She said recent military takeovers, banditry and kidnappings have created an urgent need for coordinated regional action. “These situations challenge not only the democratic values to which we have all subscribed but also threaten hard-won development gains. We must therefore remain steadfast in defending constitutional order, promoting inclusive political dialogue, and supporting credible transitions that reinforce stability,” she stated.
The minister further urged ECOWAS to accelerate economic integration, stressing that over 400 million citizens—particularly the youth, who constitute about 65 per cent of the population—are looking to the organisation for opportunities. “Our region’s future depends on deepening intra-regional trade, strengthening value chains, facilitating investments, and creating opportunities for young people. They rely on ECOWAS to chart a path toward progress,” she added.
Reflecting on the ECOWAS at 50 celebrations, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the milestone offered an opportunity to review achievements in free movement, regional peacekeeping, trade, and sectoral cooperation. She noted that decisions taken at the ministerial meeting would shape recommendations to be presented to the Authority of Heads of State and Government.
Chairman of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers and Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Timothy Kabba, also stressed the need for persistent efforts toward regional integration. He underscored the importance of strengthening private sector development as a catalyst for economic growth.
Kabba lamented the low level of intra-regional trade, calling for the revitalisation of existing mechanisms such as the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme and investment code, as well as improvements in transport, energy connectivity, and digital transformation. “The current percentage of intra-regional trade lags behind other regions. We must address non-tariff barriers, modernize border operations, and enhance joint border management,” he said.
On security, Kabba emphasised that regional stability can only be achieved through enhanced cooperation, joint intelligence efforts, activation of the ECOWAS Standby Force, and support for member states facing threats. He called for a robust blend of diplomacy, political dialogue, and development assistance to address root causes of insecurity.
He urged member states to renew their commitment to democratic governance, stating: “Our region has endured too many disruptions to democratic order. Let us stand together to defend the principles of democracy, transparency, and the people’s right to choose their leaders.”
The ministers will continue deliberations ahead of presenting recommendations to ECOWAS Heads of State.
