Nigeria has urged member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to adopt innovative measures to address the multi-dimensional challenges confronting the sub-region.

The Nigerian delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament, led by Senator Jibrin Barau, Deputy President of the Senate, made the call in Nigeria’s Country Report presented to the regional parliament on Friday in Abuja.

The report was presented during the parliament’s First Ordinary Session for 2026, in line with the provisions of the parliament’s revised guidelines.

Presented by MP Abiante Awaji-Inombek, the report stated that Nigeria remained committed to addressing the challenges facing the sub-region and supporting regional cohesion to advance the ECOWAS bloc.

It added that Nigeria was committed to repositioning West Africa for greater economic prosperity, political stability, and social welfare in collaboration with other ECOWAS member states.

“The multi-dimensional challenges affecting the ECOWAS Community require new and innovative measures to address.

“Nigeria remains committed in response to this adverse reality and re-emphasises its conviction in supporting regional cohesion to move the ECOWAS community forward.

“As we reaffirm our collective commitment to the principles and ideals of ECOWAS, let us sincerely acknowledge that the path forward will require courage, innovation and unwavering unity of purpose,” the report stated.

On Nigeria’s domestic situation, the report noted that political participation remained a central pillar of democratic governance, reflecting citizens’ involvement in elections, policy engagement, civic advocacy and representation.

It stated that between January and May 2026, Nigeria sustained efforts to consolidate democratic institutions through electoral reforms, civic engagement initiatives and institutional strengthening aimed at improving transparency and public trust.

According to the report, there has been increased participation of youths and women in political processes, especially through digital platforms and civic advocacy networks that amplify governance discourse.

“Nigeria’s experience aligns with broader ECOWAS regional trends, where member states are working to strengthen democratic institutions while improving governance outcomes.

“Within the ECOWAS framework, Nigeria remains committed to strengthening governance systems and collaborating with ECOWAS member states to promote the rule of law and sustainable development across the region.

“Moving forward, Nigeria emphasised the need for sustained reforms, improved voter education, greater inclusivity and socio-economic interventions to deepen political participation and strengthen democratic governance,” it added.

The regional parliamentarians also noted that Nigeria continued to face increasing security threats, including insurgency, banditry, organised crime and communal violence, which often overlap and evolve rapidly.

The delegation stated that Nigeria remained committed to strengthening early warning systems through improved coordination, greater use of technology and enhanced community engagement.

“These dynamics require more sophisticated analytical tools and improved inter-agency coordination to ensure effective monitoring and response,” the report stated.

It added that Nigeria would continue to work closely with ECOWAS to reinforce conflict prevention frameworks and promote peace and stability across the region, while addressing the root causes of insecurity through inclusive development strategies.

The report further stated that Nigeria had made notable progress in promoting freedom of speech and press freedom and continued to uphold those rights while addressing emerging challenges linked to digital communication, misinformation and national security concerns.

“However, continued efforts are necessary to address existing challenges and safeguard these fundamental freedoms, while working collaboratively with ECOWAS member states to advance democratic values and an open information environment,” it stated.

On energy integration, the report said Nigeria remained committed to ECOWAS energy harmonisation policies and continued to support regional efforts toward establishing a unified petroleum products market.

“The country recognises that harmonised fuel standards are essential for facilitating cross-border trade, improving environmental outcomes and ensuring regional energy security,” the MPs stated.

The delegation also noted that Nigeria aligned with other ECOWAS member states on roaming regulations aimed at ensuring affordable, reliable and seamless telecommunications services to promote regional integration and digital transformation.

The regulations are designed to reduce regional telecommunications costs, eliminate excessive roaming charges and promote affordable cross-border communication services.

“Nigeria recognises the need to deepen implementation of ECOWAS roaming regulations through enhanced regulatory enforcement, improved consumer awareness, strengthened regional coordination and continuous engagement with telecom operators,” the report added.

The two-week First Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament for 2026, which commenced on Monday, will end on May 17. 

(NAN)