The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched four significant initiatives worth over €105 million to promote peace, security, and economic integration in West Africa. This effort is supported by the European Union (EU), Germany, Spain, and several international development agencies.
The launch event took place at the ECOWAS Commission Headquarters in Abuja. It was attended by high-level representatives from ECOWAS, the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, the German and Spanish Embassies, as well as implementing partners such as GIZ, UNIDO, ITC, Expertise France, and AECID.
The initiatives include the ECOWAS Peace, Security and Governance Project (EPSG), which focuses on conflict prevention and democratic governance; Institutional Support to ECOWAS Phase II (ISE II), aimed at enhancing institutional capacity; Africa Trade Competitiveness and Market Access (ATCMA) – ECOWAS Component for boosting trade competitiveness; and AfCFTA – Trade in Services Component for promoting service sector exports.
Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, expressed gratitude to supporting countries. He stated that these projects will strengthen institutions and economies while fostering cooperation among West African nations. “Together,” he said, “we can address pressing challenges facing our region—from terrorism and insecurity to climate change and migration—with resilience and unity.”
Representatives from partner countries highlighted their commitment to investing in regional stability. Mr. Gautier Mignot from the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS emphasized that these projects are long-term investments in West Africa’s future. Dr. Annett Günther of the German Embassy reiterated support for a peaceful West Africa that values good governance.
These projects aim not only at institutional strengthening but also improving lives across West Africa through democratic transition, economic growth, job creation, environmental protection, gender equality promotion as well as cooperation on migration issues.