The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has once again reiterated its strong commitment to promoting peace, stability, and deeper regional integration across West Africa.
This position was affirmed at the conclusion of the 95th Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, which took place in Abuja between December 10 and December 12. Speaking at the end of the session, the Chair of the Council and Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Timothy Kabba, emphasised the Community’s determination to strengthen collective security, sustain peace, and advance economic cooperation among member countries.
Ambassador Kabba praised representatives of member states for what he described as frank, constructive, and fruitful discussions throughout the meeting. According to him, the quality of deliberations reflected a shared commitment to unity, cohesion, and the pursuit of collective prosperity within the sub-region. He also commended delegates for their dedication and spirit of collaboration, noting that these values continue to define ECOWAS’s longstanding mission of fostering regional stability and integration.
The Council Chair expressed deep concern over persistent security threats confronting the region, including terrorism, violent extremism, the spread of illicit small arms, transnational organised crime, and ongoing maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea. He further noted that unconstitutional changes of government, gaps in economic integration, and the increasing effects of climate change have continued to slow development and growth across West Africa.
Kabba stressed that overcoming these challenges would require unity, solidarity, and a careful blend of diplomatic engagement and operational responses. Reaffirming Sierra Leone’s allegiance to ECOWAS ideals, he maintained that democracy, constitutional governance, and the rule of law remain fundamental and non-negotiable principles within the Community.
He also called for renewed momentum in implementing key regional flagship projects, including the ECOWAS Single Currency initiative, Free Movement Protocols, and the Customs Union. In light of ongoing global economic uncertainty, ministers underscored the importance of addressing structural weaknesses, boosting intra-regional trade, and building a more competitive and interconnected West African economy.
Ambassador Kabba disclosed that Sierra Leone remains committed to close collaboration with ECOWAS institutions and member states, particularly in areas such as youth employment, innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development. Ministers further acknowledged the interrelated nature of regional challenges like food insecurity, displacement, educational disruptions, and natural disasters, urging coordinated and proactive regional solutions.
He added that concrete steps have been introduced to enhance early warning mechanisms, regional preparedness, and resource mobilisation to better assist vulnerable communities. Key highlights of the meeting included assessments of political developments in some member states and their implications for democratic governance, alongside discussions on humanitarian issues and climate-related risks affecting the region.