Shettima To ECOWAS Commission Management: Prioritise Regional Unity, Integration To Advance Progress

Deputy President Kashim Shettima has urged the newly appointed leadership of the ECOWAS Commission to focus on promoting regional unity and integration in order to drive progress for the people and economy of the sub-region. Speaking on Friday in New York, Shettima made this appeal during a meeting with a delegation from the ECOWAS Commission led by its new President, Generale Birame Diop, at the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

He urged the new leaders to prioritize private sector involvement in projects like the proposed Lagos-Abidjan highway. "Beyond your administrative duties, the commission's leadership must actively foster friendships across the sub-region," Shettima said, urging them to take a leading role in relations with emerging blocs like the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

He congratulated the new President on his election, recognizing that he took office during a challenging period demanding enhanced cooperation among ECOWAS leaders and citizens. Shettima pledged Nigeria's ongoing support and cooperation, vowing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will always champion initiatives to strengthen ECOWAS and contribute to regional development.

Earlier, Generale Diop praised Nigeria for its historical role in creating and maintaining ECOWAS, as well as its efforts to maintain stability and prosperity in the sub-region. He noted that the commission now faces unique challenges, including insecurity and slow development. Diop described ECOWAS as a vital tool for regional stability that deserves continuous support and urged other nations to collaborate with Nigeria to achieve inclusive growth and a better future for the region.