Monday, December 16, 2024
Chinedu Bruce
ECOWAS highlights progress in regional trade, security, and economic integration at its 66th summit
ECOWAS member state leaders
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held its 66th summit in Abuja, Nigeria, highlighting progress in regional integration and economic cooperation.
ECOWAS Commission President, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, praised advancements such as the electronic certificate of origin and the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS), which have boosted trade within the region.
He also noted the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline Project as a game-changer for energy access and industrial growth.
Nigerian President and ECOWAS Chairman, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasized the region's shared vision of “a community where citizens can thrive, unhindered by conflict, poverty, or inequality.” Tinubu commended
ECOWAS for promoting free movement, economic cooperation, and democratic governance through initiatives like the ETLS, Common External Tariff (CET), and ECOWAS Investment Code (EIC).
He reminded leaders of their duty to ensure security and improve living standards, stating:
“Security is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Enhancing the living standards of our people is not an aspiration but an obligation.”
The session welcomed key figures, including UN Special Representative Leonardo Santos Simao and African Union Commission Chair Moussa Faki Mahamat.
ECOWAS leaders remain committed to building a peaceful, integrated, and prosperous West Africa.
