By Adama Makasuba
President Adama Barrow has emphasized the necessity for collaborative efforts to tackle the significant challenges facing West Africa, including insecurity and economic integration. He made this important call during the 66th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government held in Abuja, Nigeria.
In his address, President Barrow expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria for graciously hosting the summit and commended his leadership as the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority. He acknowledged that while progress has been made, West Africa continues to face substantial challenges that require prompt and coordinated responses.
“Our region encounters diverse challenges that warrant united action,” he remarked. “The insecurity and threats to peace throughout the sub-region call for more effective and sustainable solutions. Additionally, we must address poverty, youth unemployment, women’s empowerment, and irregular migration—issues that are further complicated by climate change, hindering our development and integration initiatives.”
President Barrow underlined the need to build on the successes achieved in democracy, good governance, and constitutional order in the region. He congratulated Senegal and Ghana on their recent peaceful elections, viewing them as pivotal achievements in West Africa’s democratic evolution.
He also highlighted the importance of enhancing regional trade and fully leveraging the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Moreover, he advocated adopting a single currency within the ECOWAS region to streamline trade, attract investments, and mitigate currency exchange costs. “Using multiple currencies introduces exchange rate burdens on Member States, which can hinder intra-regional trade and investment,” he noted.
On domestic issues, President Barrow reiterated his government’s dedication to good governance, institutional reforms, and infrastructure development. He pointed out that the National Assembly is reviewing a draft constitution for the Third Republic of The Gambia, marking a significant milestone toward transparent and accountable governance.
“Our draft constitution embodies the aspirations of the Gambian people. It upholds the principle of the separation of powers and aims to create a governance framework founded on the rule of law and democratic ideals,” he explained. He also acknowledged the vital contributions of the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG) and the nation’s security forces in maintaining peace, expressing gratitude to the troop-contributing countries and international partners for their invaluable support.
Additionally, he welcomed the establishment of a Special Tribunal to prosecute individuals charged with serious human rights violations in the past. He recognized the support from ECOWAS Member States in making this initiative a reality and underscored the importance of ongoing collaboration to achieve justice and reconciliation.
In concluding remarks, President Barrow called on West African nations to join forces to overcome mutual challenges. “The future of our Community relies on our actions today. Upholding our shared values, addressing threats to our progress, and working collaboratively is vital for achieving lasting peace and sustainable development,” he asserted.
