The 50 years of achievements in West African Countries (ECOWAS) economic communities in regional integration are worth celebrating, the president of ECOWAS said.
Therefore, he urged West African citizens not to discount the achievements that were in the midst of criticism of the local bloc.
Speaking at Accra on Tuesday at the official launch of Ecowas' 50th anniversary ceremony, Dr. Tulay acknowledged the difficult political and economic environment, but argued that there was still much to celebrate.
“In the current context, many would be allowed to ask if there is anything about the Ecowas that should be celebrated,” he said. “Our response to such citizens emphasizes yes, and I have a reason.”
He describes Ekowas as the most integrated regional bloc on the African continent, citing the Freedom Movement Protocol, which allows citizens of member states to travel, live and work across borders without a visa.
“Thank God. There is no one member state of Ekovas that demands Dangote be bothered,” he said.
Trade and Infrastructure Outcomes
In trade, he pointed out the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS). It has registered more than 15,000 companies and more than 50,000 products for tax-free access throughout the region.
Dr. Turay also mentioned an interconnected system for the management of transportation (Sigmat) goods, currently operating in seven countries.
He said infrastructure is a priority. He outlined a 25-year masterplan featuring 201 projects across transportation, energy, communications and water, and was worth $131 billion. Among the flagship initiatives is the 1,028km Lagos-Abidjan Highway, estimated at nearly $15 billion, and is ready for investment.
Other major projects include the Banjul – Dakar – Abidjan Corridor, the Abidjan – Praia Maritime route and energy efforts under the West African power pool. He also cited Ecowas' $340 million off-grid power access program as part of an effort to close the energy gap in the region.
Human development and health
For social impact, Dr. Turay praised the West African Health Organization (WAHO) for the role of coordinating local responses to Ebola, Covid19 and MPOX. He added that climate-smart agriculture, food security and vocational training initiatives reflect Bullock's commitment to human-centered development.
He reaffirmed the Ekowas record of promoting peace and democracy, citing interventions in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau and the Gambia.
“It was Ekowas who guaranteed that the will of the Gambian people won in 2016,” he said.
Regarding maritime security, he noted that in 2024 there had been no record of copyright infringement cases in West African waters so far.
Calling for reform
Dr. Tulaye admitted hovering by around 12%, with intra-regional trade remaining low. He called for urgent reforms to dismantle non-tariff barriers, improve infrastructure and increase productivity across member states.
He also appealed to local and international investors to exploit the economic potential of the region, supported by a population of over 400 million.
Amid security challenges and the withdrawal of some Sahel states from the block, Dr. Tulay emphasized the importance of collective action. He said dialogue and mediation with Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso continues.
“In spite of the challenges, we remain optimistic about collectively preserving and building the benefits of regional integration for those who are united by blood,” he concluded.
ecowa
ECOWAS was established in 1975 through the Treaty of Lagos and promoted economic integration across West Africa. The 15 member states share a total population of over 400 million.
Over the past 50 years, the bloc has launched a peacekeeping mission, fostering cross-border trade and movements, and supporting democratic governance.
However, following a series of military coups in Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, the unity has been strained in recent years, along with the threat of terrorism and increasing economic instability.
