At the opening of the 2025 ECOWAS Parliament session in Abuja, Nigerian Senate President Godswill Akpabio called on lawmakers to renew their promise to build a more united West Africa.
Speaking under the theme “One Region, One Dream: Advancing the Promise of West Africa,” Akpabio encouraged leaders to recommit to creating a peaceful and prosperous future for all citizens in the region.
He reminded the Parliament that ECOWAS was not just an idea, but a call to action for every West African. The original dream was to build strong economies, work together politically, and protect the region from outside interference.
Akpabio said this vision is still important today, but the region must also face today’s challenges. While progress has been made, problems like economic instability still hold West Africa back.
He highlighted the need for better trade, more investment, and shared prosperity. But issues like currency problems, inflation, and inequality continue to slow down growth.
Akpabio mentioned the hope of a common West African currency to boost trade and lower costs. However, he made it clear that reaching this goal will require smart financial planning, cooperation, and trust between nations.
He encouraged leaders to update their economic systems, focus on regional trade, and build industries. He said West Africa must not only buy from others but also create and compete globally.
To grow jobs and wealth, the region should support small businesses, invest in better infrastructure, and make good use of its natural resources.
Akpabio also linked economic growth to political peace. He warned that security threats like terrorism and political unrest could stop progress.
He stressed the importance of protecting democracy, promoting good leadership, and upholding the rule of law. At the same time, he asked leaders to solve deeper problems like joblessness, poverty, tribalism, and poor education.
According to him, giving young people more chances and building a society full of hope is the best way to fight fear and violence.
Looking at ECOWAS’s role globally, Akpabio said the organization must speak up for West Africans in international meetings and demand fair treatment in world trade and climate talks.
He called for unity among ECOWAS countries and urged them to work as one team. He said the region should speak with one voice, stand strong against outside pressure, and always put the people first.
Akpabio ended his speech by asking the regional body to keep pushing for a strong, safe, and united West Africa.
In her own remarks, ECOWAS Parliament Speaker Memounatou Ibrahima from Togo said the Parliament has grown its influence over the past 25 years. She reminded everyone that unity is a daily effort and must be renewed constantly.
She noted that the Parliament’s 25th anniversary in November is a good time to reflect and keep working toward deeper integration across the region.
