Senator Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, has urged West African leaders to strengthen regional integration, confront economic and security challenges decisively, and embrace a renewed vision of unity. Akpabio made these remarks on Tuesday during the opening of the First Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament in Abuja, addressing an audience that included ECOWAS Parliament Speaker Memounatou Ibrahima, members of parliament, diplomats, and other dignitaries. He described the moment as a pivotal time in the region’s history.
“We are gathered here for an obvious reason, summoned by the strident call of destiny, and bound by the shared promise of a brighter tomorrow for our people,” he stated.
He emphasized the potential of the region, declaring, “We are gathered here as representatives of a proud and diverse region, united by a common dream – a West Africa that rises to its full potential, a continent that stands tall on the global stage – not as a recipient of pity or charity, but as a force of innovation, dignity, and destiny.”
Addressing economic challenges, Akpabio highlighted persistent barriers to growth, such as inflation, currency instability, and limited intra-regional trade. He advocated for the pursuit of a unified regional currency as a significant step towards economic transformation.
“The promise of a unified regional currency, a cornerstone of our economic ambitions, holds great potential for simplifying trade, reducing transaction costs, and enhancing the global competitiveness of our businesses,” he asserted. “Yet, we must be clear-eyed about the path to achieving this – it demands fiscal discipline, monetary coordination, robust financial infrastructure, and mutual economic trust.”
The Senate President urged the region to “break free from outdated, fragmented approaches and embrace a truly integrated financial system that reflects the realities of our interconnected economies.”
However, he cautioned that economic reforms would be ineffective without peace and good governance. “Economic stability cannot flourish without political stability,” he warned, referencing threats such as terrorism, insurgency, political unrest, and organized crime.
“We must remain vigilant in defending our democratic institutions, promoting good governance, and ensuring that the rule of law prevails in every corner of our region,” he noted. “We must also address the root causes of instability – unemployment, inequality, tribalism, and lack of education – for it is often in the shadows of despair that extremism takes root.”
Highlighting the significance of engaging Africa’s youth, Akpabio stated, “We must invest in our youths, create opportunities for our people, and build societies where hope thrives, not fear.”
As West Africa faces shifting global dynamics, he called for a more robust ECOWAS presence in international affairs. “ECOWAS must strengthen its voice in international forums, champion the interests of our people, and demand fair treatment in global trade, finance, and climate negotiations,” he urged.
Akpabio concluded with a passionate call for renewed resolve and shared purpose, expressing confidence in the region’s potential. “Though it may seem impossible, I believe that together, we can overcome our challenges, forge a path to prosperity, and build the West Africa of our dreams,” he stated. “Let us transform our challenges into opportunities and our aspirations into achievements. The road ahead may be long, but our steps are measured and our destination is clear – a prosperous, peaceful, and united West Africa.”