The ECOWAS Commission has emphasized its ongoing dedication to the welfare and financial resilience of its staff by strengthening its collaboration with the ECOWAS Staff Mutual Credit Union. This was highlighted during the 38th Annual General Meeting of the Union, which took place on March 27, 2025, at the ECOWAS Commission headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria.
H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, spoke on behalf of the management, praising the Union and its leadership for maintaining high levels of dividend distribution and investment returns despite regional and global economic challenges. He stressed the importance of maintaining institutional cohesion and ensuring staff welfare, especially given the evolving geopolitical context, including the withdrawal of three Member States.
Dr. Touray stated that the ECOWAS Commission is prepared to collaborate with the Union to counter any potential impacts from these developments. This includes identifying internal measures to protect staff interests and maintaining the integrity of current welfare mechanisms.
Mr. Jimmy Ife-Ilori, President of the ECOWAS Staff Mutual Credit Union, outlined strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing member access and financial flexibility. These initiatives involve the introduction of savings options in US dollars and CFA francs, aligning with staff salary structures, and developing a multilingual digital platform accessible in all official ECOWAS languages. The platform will feature harmonized and differentiated service charges.
Mr. Ife-Ilori also confirmed the Union's commitment to inclusive welfare by prioritizing the needs of retired staff. He noted that concrete proposals in this regard will be finalized in consultation with members by the end of the next quarter.
During the AGM, the Auditor General of ECOWAS Institutions commended the Union for fostering a spirit of unity and shared responsibility among staff. The Director General of the Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA) highlighted the Union's broader value in promoting financial independence, institutional stability, and regional integration.
The General Secretary of the Union presented the annual financial and operational report for the year ending December 31, 2024. Representatives from BBC Professional Chartered Accountants provided an independent audit and performance review. The meeting concluded with a participatory session where members could engage directly with leadership and provide feedback on future priorities.
The 38th Annual General Meeting reinforced the ECOWAS Commission’s recognition of the ECOWAS Staff Mutual Credit Union as a key partner in enhancing institutional development, regional integration, and the long-term welfare of its personnel.
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