As the ECOWAS Parliament marks its 25th anniversary during the ongoing 2025 Extraordinary Session, leaders from West Africa have called on member states to take urgent collective action to defend democracy and the rule of law in the sub-region.
The two-week session, which began on Monday in Abuja, is focused on strengthening ECOWAS’ commitment to democratic governance and regional stability.
Julius Bio, President of Sierra Leone and Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, highlighted ECOWAS’ long-standing support for peace-building, regional cooperation, security, migration, and human rights, stressing that member states must act decisively to counter current threats to democracy.
In his speech, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, called on the Parliament to use its silver jubilee as an opportunity to reflect on achievements and challenges, aiming for a golden jubilee where democracy, human rights, and the rule of law are firmly entrenched.
The Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Mémounatou Ibrahima, emphasized introspection and renewed ambition to tackle contemporary challenges, while former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan urged the Parliament to support credible elections, good governance, and conflict resolution to safeguard democratic institutions.
Former Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, called for stronger regional integration and collaborative responses to political, economic, and security challenges, highlighting the Parliament’s central role in driving stability across West Africa.
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