Abuja: The ECOWAS Parliament has called on regional leaders to urgently confront the sub-region’s multifaceted challenges of rising insecurity, fragile democracy, and economic stagnation toward deepening integration and economic growth. The Speaker of the Parliament, Memounatou Ibrahima, made the appeal while declaring open the two-week 2026 First Ordinary Session of the Parliament on Monday in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the session’s events include the swearing-in of new parliamentarians, presentation of Country Reports, and preparations for a Special Summit on the Future of Regional Integration, among others. Ibrahima emphasized the need for West African leaders to defend democracy while responding to growing internal and external pressures, stressing that subregional peace should not be taken for granted.
Ibrahima stated, “Let us make this session a decisive turning point in our efforts to strengthen our democracies and fulfill the promise of effective, visible regional integration for our peoples.” She underscored that democracy remains the foundation of the Community and urged regional leaders to handle emerging threats with caution and responsibility.
The Speaker highlighted the Parliament’s commitment to stability and peace within the West African sub-region, condemning the terrorist attacks in Mali on April 25, 2026, and expressing solidarity with the Malian people. She pointed out the region’s exposure to terrorism, piracy, cross-border crime, and climate change as persistent threats requiring coordinated action.
Ibrahima also addressed recent incidents of violence in the region, urging authorities in Guinea-Bissau to restore constitutional order. She noted the global turmoil marked by tensions and violent conflicts, which compound the sub-region’s problems and drive inflationary pressures affecting fragile economies.
Emphasizing the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect, Ibrahima called on the ECOWAS Parliament to echo this imperative to Member States and partners. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, warned of further instability risks, highlighting the existential threat to democratic governance in West Africa.
Abbas suggested stronger regional mechanisms to safeguard democracy, noting the defining moment faced by the sub-region with declining voter participation and waning public trust. He advocated for the ECOWAS Parliament to evolve beyond its advisory role to a stronger legislative authority, improving oversight powers, and taking a more direct role in regional decision-making.