By Anifowoshe Oladipupo
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), is grappling with serious integration challenges, says Commission President Dr. Omar Touray.
Speaking at the 37th Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Administration and Finance Committee (AFC), on Sunday in Abuja, Touray emphasized the need for unity, solidarity, and fraternity to overcome the bloc’s existential crisis.
Touray, represented by ECOWAS Vice President Mrs. Damtien Tchintchibidja, said the AFC meeting aimed to assess the mid-term implementation of ECOWAS decisions, programmes, and projects amidst financial difficulties and the recent withdrawals of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
“Our organisation is at a crossroads. We must examine our challenges and strengthen our capacity to preserve the gains of 50 years of integration,” he said.
He added that the committee would also review recruitment updates across ECOWAS institutions and prepare for an upcoming summit on the future of the community, in line with the resolutions of the Heads of State and Government.
Touray stressed the importance of engaging youth and women in consultations, reaffirming that ECOWAS’ strength lies in collective commitment and shared progress toward peace and development.
