Janet Samuel
The First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Jibrin Barau has reaffirmed the bloc’s determination to implement a single currency and deepen regional integration despite challenges, including the withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
Speaking at the 1st Extraordinary Session of ECOWAS for 2025 in Lagos, Barau emphasized that colonial-era borders cannot hinder the region’s economic unification, as West Africans share historical, cultural, and linguistic ties.
He highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects supporting integration, such as cross-border road networks, healthcare, and aviation links, while drawing parallels to Europe’s economic model to underscore the feasibility of a common currency.
Barau reassured that ECOWAS remains open to the return of the three Sahelian nations, urging them to embrace democratic principles and dialogue.
He emphasized that while the bloc respects national sovereignty, adherence to democratic norms is crucial for stability.
The lawmaker reiterated that ECOWAS does not interfere in member states’ internal affairs but expects collective commitment to regional goals. He expressed optimism that the departing nations would eventually rejoin the bloc.
“Despite recent setbacks, ECOWAS continues to advance policies that promote economic and political cohesion, focusing on trade facilitation, mobility, and infrastructure development” the lawmaker noted.
