The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Administration and Finance Committee (AFC) has concluded its 34th meeting at the ECOWAS headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria. The gathering focused on advancing economic and organizational priorities for the West African region.
H.E. Ambassador Yakubu A. Dadu, PhD, who serves as Chairman of the AFC and Head of the ECOWAS National Office in Nigeria, led the closing ceremony. He praised the management of the ECOWAS Commission for their effective handling of community affairs and highlighted the committee's dedication to improving the welfare of West African citizens. This dedication is evident in the proposed 2024 consolidated budget, which allocates a 70/30 ratio between programs and operating costs.
Ambassador Dadu acknowledged the committee members for their thorough examination of key issues, stressing the importance of safeguarding ECOWAS citizens, achieving fiscal prudence, and enhancing administrative efficiency. He urged that AFC decisions align with member states' priorities and called for collaboration to ensure these decisions are effectively implemented.
He also emphasized well-prepared choices as crucial when presenting budgets to Parliament and commended ECOWAS staff's commitment. His remarks echoed a collective effort to position ECOWAS as a leading regional economic community in Africa by fostering unity among member states.
The meeting's outcomes and recommendations will be submitted to the ECOWAS Council of Ministers for further evaluation, showcasing an ongoing commitment to regional integration and improving living standards within West African communities.