The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), in partnership with the Spanish Cooperation through the ISE II project, organized a two-day capacity building and retreat for its directorates. The event took place on September 18-19, 2025, in Niger State, Nigeria. It aimed to strengthen coordination among ECOWAS departments and improve the implementation of regional integration initiatives.
At the opening ceremony, Jerome Boa, Director of External Relations, spoke on behalf of ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray. He highlighted the importance of effective coordination mechanisms for advancing regional integration. Boa stated that collaboration between directorates is vital for successful execution of projects supported by development partners. He also acknowledged the value of the partnership between ECOWAS and Spain.
Santiago Ormeño García, Head of AECID in Nigeria and ECOWAS, represented the Spanish Agency for Cooperation at the event. He said, “Spain is proud to be part of the ISE II project and supporting ECOWAS in its mission of bringing the West African community together. Regional integration delivers livelihoods and improves citizens’ lives.”
Support from Spanish Cooperation and the European Union reflects ongoing efforts to foster economic growth and greater unity across West Africa.