Nigeria has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to regional integration, democratic governance, peace, security and sustainable development in West Africa, while also condemning recent Afrophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa during the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Lungi, Sierra Leone.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the summit, Vice President Kashim Shettima said Nigeria remains committed to implementing the ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration, describing it as a strategic framework for building a more resilient, prosperous, inclusive and people-centred West African community.
Speaking before regional leaders, the Vice President reiterated Nigeria's support for deeper economic integration through expanded intra-regional trade, industrialisation, infrastructure development, investment promotion, food security and the gradual implementation of the ECO single currency.
He stressed that sustainable regional prosperity depends on removing barriers to trade, facilitating the free movement of persons, goods and services, and creating a conducive environment for businesses and investors.
On security, Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to constitutional governance, the rule of law and zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government. He called for stronger collaboration through the ECOWAS Standby Force, enhanced intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism cooperation and preventive diplomacy to address the region's growing security challenges.
The Vice President also advocated increased investment in digital transformation, innovation, science and technology as catalysts for economic growth, while emphasising the need to empower women and young people as key drivers of West Africa's development.
He further urged the strengthening of ECOWAS institutions through greater transparency, accountability, efficiency and sustainable financing to improve public confidence and ensure the effective implementation of regional decisions.
Addressing recent Afrophobic attacks in South Africa, Shettima strongly condemned the violence against African nationals and called for a united continental response to xenophobia. He disclosed that the Federal Government had successfully evacuated 1,490 Nigerians affected by the attacks and pledged continued engagement with regional and continental institutions to safeguard the rights and dignity of Africans.
The Vice President also congratulated Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio on the successful completion of his tenure as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority and commended the Government and people of Sierra Leone for hosting the summit. He praised the commissioning of the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre as a significant contribution to regional diplomacy and cooperation.
Shettima concluded by urging ECOWAS member states, development partners, the private sector, civil society, women and youth to work together in implementing the ECOWAS Compact, stressing that collective action remains critical to achieving lasting peace, security, economic prosperity and sustainable development across West Africa.
