ECOWAS @ 50: Tinubu Presses for Urgent Action on Poverty
By Femi Ogundele
President Bola Tinubu has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to take decisive action to address poverty and youth unemployment across the region as the bloc marks its 50th anniversary.
Speaking at ECOWAS’ Golden Jubilee launch in Accra on Tuesday, Tinubu, Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State, stressed the need for the regional body to turn its vision of integration into real improvements for citizens.
The Nigerian leader was represented at the event by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu.
“Despite our shared vision and the progress we have made, too many of our citizens still live in poverty, too many of our children lack access to quality education, and too many of our youth remain unemployed or forced to seek opportunities abroad,” Tinubu said.
He acknowledged the strides ECOWAS has made in economic integration over the past five decades, including the establishment of one of Africa’s most vibrant free trade areas.
However, he emphasised that the region must now focus on inclusive development, particularly in areas that directly affect the wellbeing of its growing population.
Tinubu urged ECOWAS member states to reimagine the community as a “Community of People” rather than merely a coalition of governments.
He stressed the importance of investing in education, innovation, and skills development to unlock the potential of West Africa’s youth.
“We must rise to the occasion by creating an enabling environment for our young people to thrive. This includes policies that encourage entrepreneurship, enhance vocational training, and expand access to digital technologies,” he said.
The president also advocated for stronger support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), calling it a vital instrument for driving economic transformation and job creation across the continent.
The ceremony featured the unveiling of the ECOWAS Golden Jubilee logo and theme, signaling the beginning of a year-long series of events to commemorate the milestone.
Founded in 1975, ECOWAS comprises 15 member states and aims to promote economic integration and collective self-sufficiency in the West African region.