Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged ECOWAS member states to deepen regional integration by eliminating trade barriers and ensuring free movement across West Africa.
Speaking at the ECOWAS Parliamentary Seminar in Lagos on Friday, Sanwo-Olu said the bloc must strengthen its institutions, foster economic cooperation, and address security challenges to create a stable and prosperous region. The event marked 50 years of ECOWAS and 25 years of the ECOWAS Parliament.
“We must build a West Africa where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. This means investing in education, innovation, and job creation while also tackling climate change and promoting peace,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos’ role as a key economic and cultural hub, describing the state as a gateway for trade and investment. He reiterated Lagos’ commitment to working with ECOWAS to drive development and address regional challenges.
ECOWAS Parliament Speaker Hadja Memounatou Ibrahima acknowledged the bloc’s achievements in economic growth and peacekeeping over the past five decades. Nigeria’s Deputy Senate President and First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Barau Jibrin, commended Lagos for hosting the anniversary event and recognized Sanwo-Olu’s leadership in infrastructure development.
