Nigeria has called for renewed commitment to regional unity, stronger democratic institutions and collective action against insecurity, while condemning recent Afrophobic attacks in South Africa and urging African leaders to confront xenophobia through a coordinated continental response.
Vice President Kashim Shettima made the call while representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 69th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held in Lungi, Sierra Leone.
Addressing fellow West African leaders, Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing regional integration through the implementation of the ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration, describing the initiative as a blueprint for building a more resilient, inclusive and prosperous West Africa.
The Vice President stressed that Nigeria remains committed to strengthening ECOWAS as a platform for economic cooperation, democratic governance and sustainable development, despite growing political and security challenges confronting the sub-region.
A major highlight of his address was Nigeria’s condemnation of the recent Afrophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa. Shettima described the attacks as unacceptable and called for stronger collaboration among African governments to protect the rights, dignity and safety of citizens living across the continent.
He disclosed that the Federal Government had successfully evacuated 1,490 Nigerians affected by the attacks and assured that Nigeria would continue engaging regional and continental institutions to ensure lasting solutions to xenophobia and the protection of African migrants.
the Vice President reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering support for constitutional democracy and warned against unconstitutional changes of government, insisting that political stability remains the foundation for sustainable development.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s backing for strengthening the ECOWAS Standby Force, expanding intelligence sharing among member states, enhancing counter-terrorism cooperation and promoting preventive diplomacy to address violent extremism, organised crime and other emerging threats across West Africa.
Shettima also urged ECOWAS leaders to intensify efforts towards economic integration by promoting intra-regional trade, industrialisation, infrastructure development, investment and food security.
He said the gradual implementation of the proposed ECO single currency, alongside the removal of barriers to the free movement of people, goods and services, would significantly improve regional competitiveness and unlock new economic opportunities.
The Vice President further identified digital transformation, innovation, science and technology as essential tools for accelerating economic growth, while calling for greater investment in women and young people, whom he described as critical drivers of development and innovation.
He also advocated stronger ECOWAS institutions built on transparency, accountability, efficiency and sustainable financing, noting that effective institutions are necessary for implementing regional decisions and maintaining public confidence.
Shettima praised President Julius Maada Bio for his leadership during his tenure as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority and commended the inauguration of the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre, describing it as an enduring investment in regional diplomacy.
He concluded by urging member states, development partners, the private sector, civil society organisations, women and youth groups to work together in implementing the ECOWAS Compact, stressing that sustained cooperation and collective responsibility remain essential for achieving lasting peace, security and shared prosperity across West Africa.
