Jane Salihu
The 2026 First Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament opened in Abuja on Monday with strong calls for decisive action on democracy, security, economic integration and regional unity, as leaders warned that citizens across West Africa are demanding tangible results.
Delivering the welcome address, Speaker of the Parliament, Mémounatou Ibrahima, stressed that peace in the region cannot be imposed but must be built through sustained dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect. She highlighted growing threats including terrorism, political instability and economic pressures worsened by global conflicts, urging member states to remain vigilant and committed to democratic values.
In his remarks, Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, warned that democracy in West Africa is under mounting strain and must begin to deliver measurable outcomes to retain public trust. He cited declining voter participation, weak institutions and recent unconstitutional changes of government as signs of deepening challenges, calling for stronger legislative authority and oversight for the regional Parliament.
Adding to the urgency, Speaker of The Gambia’s National Assembly, Fabakary Tombong Jatta, delivered a keynote address urging lawmakers to move beyond rhetoric and confront the region’s pressing challenges with unity and resolve.
“We convene at a time of profound consequence for our region,” Jatta said, pointing to the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism across the Sahel, which he said continues to displace communities and disrupt livelihoods. He described the crisis as a shared regional challenge requiring a coordinated and sustained response.
Jatta also warned of growing strains on democratic systems within the sub-region, noting that political instability and weakening constitutional order in some member states pose risks to the cohesion of the ECOWAS bloc. He stressed that regional integration must be driven not only by treaties but by trust, dialogue and shared commitment.
On the economic front, he acknowledged the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area but noted that non-tariff barriers, low intra-regional trade and exposure to external shocks continue to limit growth. He called for accelerated implementation of policies that promote cross-border trade and harmonised regulations.
The Gambian lawmaker further drew attention to climate change, describing it as a major security, economic and humanitarian threat. He urged ECOWAS to adopt coordinated environmental policies and strengthen its voice in global climate negotiations.
All three leaders emphasised the critical role of parliaments in restoring confidence in governance and advancing regional stability. Jatta, in particular, encouraged the use of parliamentary diplomacy to sustain dialogue among member states, even in times of political tension, while also backing efforts to introduce direct elections into the regional Parliament to deepen democratic legitimacy.
The session is expected to address key issues including security cooperation, economic reforms, regional integration, and social development, alongside emerging priorities such as technology, trade facilitation and climate resilience.
With over 400 million citizens looking to the bloc for progress, leaders at the opening session agreed that the time for action is now, stressing that the credibility of the ECOWAS project will depend on its ability to deliver real improvements in the lives of the people.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings