Nigeria has urged member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to adopt innovative measures to tackle the multi-dimensional challenges facing the sub-region.
The Nigerian delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament, led by Sen. Jibrin Barau, Deputy President of the Senate, made the call while presenting Nigeria’s Country Report on Friday in Abuja.
The report, presented by MP Abiante Awaji-Inombek during the parliament’s First Ordinary Session for 2026, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional cohesion and the bloc’s progress.
“Nigeria remains committed to addressing these challenges and supporting regional cohesion to move the ECOWAS community forward,” the report stated.
It added that the country is ready to collaborate with other member states to reposition West Africa for greater economic prosperity, political stability, and social welfare.
“As we reaffirm our collective commitment to the principles and ideals of ECOWAS, the path forward will require courage, innovation and unwavering unity of purpose,” the report noted.
The report highlighted Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen democratic governance through electoral reforms, increased youth and women participation in politics, and greater use of digital platforms for civic engagement.
It acknowledged persistent security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, organised crime, and communal violence, stressing the need for improved early warning systems, better inter-agency coordination, and enhanced technology.
On press freedom, the report noted Nigeria’s commitment to upholding freedom of speech while addressing challenges posed by misinformation and digital communication.
In the areas of energy and telecommunications, Nigeria reaffirmed support for ECOWAS policies on energy harmonisation and the full implementation of regional roaming regulations to reduce costs and promote digital integration.
The two-week First Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament for 2026, which began on Monday, is expected to end on May 17.
