In a show of commitment to regional integration, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reaffirmed his unwavering support for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) during his keynote address at the opening ceremony of the ECOWAS Parliamentary Seminar in Lagos.
The seminar on Monday, held to commemorate the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS and the 25th year of its Parliamentary arm, highlighted the vital role of collaboration in achieving sustained progress in West Africa.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, acknowledging Lagos as the economic and cultural epicenter of West Africa, emphasised the state’s pivotal role in advancing the integration process.
He said the urgency of regional cooperation, particularly in addressing shared socio-economic and security challenges.
“We remain committed to supporting ECOWAS in deepening integration and enhancing the lives of our citizens. The challenges we face require collective action, and we are ready to collaborate with ECOWAS and its member states to unlock our region’s full potential,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
As the keynote speaker, the governor reflected on ECOWAS’s historical trajectory, noting that the Treaty of Lagos, signed in 1975, laid the foundation for the bloc’s creation.
“Fifty years ago, the founders of ECOWAS envisioned a community defined by shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to economic integration, peace, and security. Over the past five decades, ECOWAS has transformed from a bold idea into a dynamic organisation that has significantly influenced the destiny of our region,” he observed.
Sanwo-Olu also revealed the crucial role of the ECOWAS Parliament, which marks a quarter-century of existence, in shaping the regional legislative landscape and fostering political cooperation among member states.
He commended the Parliament for its efforts in ensuring meaningful dialogue and encouraging the exchange of ideas toward strengthening the region’s unity.
During the seminar, which brought together regional lawmakers and stakeholders, Governor Sanwo-Olu called on all participants to actively engage in discussions that would propel the West African community to new heights.
This gathering of key stakeholders comes at a time when the West African sub-region faces significant challenges ranging from political instability to economic disparities.
However, Sanwo-Olu urged ECOWAS member states to harness their collective strengths in building a stronger, more integrated future for the region.
