Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to regional integration, democratic governance, peace, security and sustainable development across West Africa at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government held in Lungi, Sierra Leone.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the summit, reiterated Nigeria’s support for the implementation of the ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration, describing it as a strategic roadmap for building a more resilient, prosperous and people-centred West African community.
Shettima commended the Government and people 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 also praised the inauguration of the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre, describing it as a boost to regional diplomacy and cooperation.
The Vice President reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for deeper economic integration through increased intra-regional trade, industrialisation, infrastructure development, investment promotion, food security and the gradual implementation of the ECO single currency.
He stressed the need to remove trade barriers, promote the free movement of people, goods and services, and create a conducive environment for businesses and investors.
On regional security, Shettima reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to constitutional governance, the rule of law and opposition to unconstitutional changes of government.
He also pledged continued support for strengthening the ECOWAS Standby Force, improving intelligence sharing, enhancing counter-terrorism cooperation and promoting preventive diplomacy across the region.
He highlighted the importance of digital transformation, innovation, science and technology in driving economic growth and called for greater investment in women and young people as key drivers of development.
He further advocated stronger ECOWAS institutions anchored on transparency, accountability, efficiency and sustainable financing.
Addressing the recent Afrophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa, the Vice President condemned the violence and called for a united African response against xenophobia.
He disclosed that the Federal Government had evacuated 1,490 Nigerians affected by the attacks and pledged continued engagement with regional and continental institutions to address the issue.
Shettima urged ECOWAS member states, development partners, the private sector, civil society, women and youth to support the effective implementation of the ECOWAS Compact, stressing that collective action is essential to achieving lasting peace, security, prosperity and sustainable development across West Africa.