Lagos: President Bola Tinubu has called on West African leaders to uphold and pass on the vision of the founding fathers of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as the regional bloc marks its 50th anniversary. In a keynote address on Wednesday in Lagos, the President urged leaders to look beyond the artificial borders created by colonialists and embrace one another as a family.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Tinubu, the Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, noted that the founding fathers foresaw a more united, harmonious, and purpose-driven regional bloc that would benefit many generations. “Today, we celebrate not only five decades of history but the enduring spirit of unity, resilience, and shared destiny that defines our community,” Tinubu remarked. He emphasized that the vision of 1975, for a West Africa where borders unite rather than divide, is still alive and thriving.
The President highlighted that in many respects, ECOWAS has lived up to the founders’ expectations, particularly in peacekeeping, trade liberalisation, and the free movement of citizens. He praised the regional bloc’s efforts in overcoming colonial legacies and uniting Anglophone, Francophone, and Lusophone nations under one vision. Tinubu cited the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme and Joint Border Posts as key achievements facilitating business, cultural exchange, and mobility across West Africa.
On matters of peace and security, Tinubu pointed out ECOWAS’s decisive actions in restoring constitutional order and countering instability. He mentioned regional cooperation on counterterrorism and financial crime as a reflection of their shared commitment to peace and safety. The President also noted the role of ECOWAS in upholding democratic norms through election observation and mediation.
Tinubu highlighted progress in various sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, and digital innovation, mentioning the ECOWAS Infrastructure Master Plan (2020-2045) as a significant advancement. He urged member states to ensure that citizens feel the tangible benefits of integration, with a strong emphasis on investing in education, entrepreneurship, healthcare, and leadership for young people and women.
Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, reinforced Tinubu’s sentiments by highlighting ECOWAS’ achievements in peacekeeping, election monitoring, and trade liberalisation. Meanwhile, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, the only surviving founding father of ECOWAS, expressed his satisfaction with the regional body’s impact over fifty years and addressed concerns over the departures of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Dr. Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, concluded by noting that ECOWAS has become a shining example as Africa’s oldest and most active regional bloc.