Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional integration, promoting democratic governance, enhancing security and supporting sustainable development across West Africa.
Representing President Bola Tinubu at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Sierra Leone, Vice President Kashim Shettima reiterated Nigeria’s support for the implementation of the ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration.
He described the initiative as a strategic roadmap aimed at building a more resilient, inclusive and prosperous West African region.
Shettima also commended the Government 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. He further praised the inauguration of the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre, describing it as an important contribution to regional cooperation.
The Vice President reaffirmed Nigeria’s backing for greater economic integration through increased intra-African trade, industrialisation, improved infrastructure, investment promotion, food security and the gradual adoption of the ECO single currency.
He stressed the need to eliminate barriers to trade, encourage the free movement of people, goods and services, and create a more favourable environment for businesses and investors across the region.
On security matters, Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to constitutional democracy, the rule of law and opposition to unconstitutional changes of government. He also pledged continued support for strengthening the ECOWAS Standby Force, enhancing intelligence sharing, improving counter-terrorism efforts and expanding preventive diplomacy.
The Vice President highlighted the importance of digital innovation, science and technology in driving economic growth, while calling for greater investment in women and young people as key contributors to the region’s development.
He also advocated stronger ECOWAS institutions built on transparency, accountability, efficiency and sustainable financing to improve public confidence and the implementation of regional policies.
Addressing recent Afrophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa, Shettima condemned the violence and called for a united continental response to combat xenophobia and protect the rights of Africans.
He disclosed that the Federal Government had evacuated 1,490 Nigerians affected by the attacks and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to working with regional and continental organisations to address the situation.
Shettima concluded by urging member states, development partners, the private sector, civil society, women and youth to work together in implementing the ECOWAS Compact to achieve lasting peace, security and sustainable development across West Africa.
