President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Touray, has acknowledged that the Economic Community of West African States is currently grappling with significant integration challenges. He emphasized the need to strengthen unity, solidarity, and fraternity within the region to address these issues effectively.
Speaking at the 37th Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Administration and Finance Committee (AFC) held on Sunday at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, Touray—represented by ECOWAS Vice President, Mrs. Damtien Tchintchibidja—outlined the bloc’s action plan amid mounting difficulties.
The meeting was convened to assess the mid-term implementation of ECOWAS programmes, projects, and institutional activities. It also examined the region’s worsening financial outlook and the fallout from the recent withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
Touray described the current situation as an “existential crisis” for ECOWAS and urged member states to confront challenges with renewed resolve.
“Our organisation stands at a crossroads. Overcoming current obstacles and projecting a shared future demands collective commitment. Our strength lies in unity, solidarity, and fraternity as we move forward together in peace and stability,” he said.
Reflecting on lessons from the bloc’s 50th anniversary and the recent regional withdrawals, Touray stressed the urgency of deep institutional, political, organisational, and security reforms. He revealed that a summit focused on ECOWAS’ future would soon be convened, following the directive of the Heads of State and Government.
“Consultations will include youth and women to ensure a comprehensive vision for the future of our community,” he added. “ECOWAS exists in each of us—through our commitment, solidarity, and shared vision for a prosperous region.”
Also addressing the committee, Prof. Nazifi Darma, ECOWAS Commissioner for Internal Services, noted the need for innovative financing strategies amid dwindling donor support. He highlighted the acquisition of new communications infrastructure aimed at modernising the commission’s operations.
“We must explore indigenous solutions to meet our financial and service delivery needs,” Darma said.
AFC Chairman, Ambassador Olawale Awe, underscored the importance of tackling staffing shortfalls and reassessing the community levy in the wake of the Sahel states’ exit.
“The Commission cannot afford stagnation. We must act decisively to maintain momentum and fulfil our regional mandate,” he stated.
The event drew high-level attendance, including ECOWAS commissioners, parliamentarians, representatives of the Community Court of Justice, and heads of various ECOWAS institutions and agencies.
