Nigeria’s delegation to the 2025 First Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament has reaffirmed the nation’s unwavering commitment to democratic governance, regional security collaboration, human rights protection, and climate resilience initiatives.
Presenting the Nigeria Country Report, delegation leader and Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, conveyed warm greetings from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while outlining significant national milestones that align with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) strategic objectives.
Highlighting the nation’s democratic progress, the report cited the successful and peaceful conduct of off-cycle governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States in 2024, showcasing the effectiveness of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to electoral integrity and democratic stability.
Key governance reforms were also spotlighted, including a landmark Supreme Court ruling granting financial autonomy to local governments and the recent signing of a fraud action plan with the United Kingdom, further strengthening Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework.
On security, the report acknowledged persisting challenges but noted major strides made by Nigeria’s armed forces. Over 1,400 insurgents reportedly surrendered in the North-East under Operation Hadin Kai, while coordinated military actions led to a notable decline in banditry in the North-West. Additionally, the Nigerian Navy successfully curbed piracy incidents in the Gulf of Guinea, improving maritime security in the region.
Regional partnerships with Chad and Cameroon have been instrumental in addressing cross-border threats and bolstering West African security cooperation.
Addressing human rights, Senator Jibrin emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to civil liberties, even in the wake of protests under the #EndBadGovernance campaign. Investigations into incidents of unrest and arrests remain ongoing, with measures in place to ensure accountability and justice.
The report also detailed ongoing efforts to tackle gender-based violence, child protection challenges, and justice sector reforms, including the modernization of court procedures and expanded access to legal aid services.
In a strong push for environmental and agricultural resilience, Nigeria declared a state of emergency in agriculture and launched innovative initiatives like the Agricultural Youth Empowerment Scheme (Agric-YES) and the National Agricultural Resilience Framework, designed to combat food insecurity and advance climate-smart farming practices.
On regional integration, Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to implementing key ECOWAS protocols, including the early warning mechanism, fuel quality harmonization standards, and regional mobile roaming regulations. Investments in early climate warning systems and civil-military cooperation frameworks are also underway to enhance conflict prevention and promote regional peace.
Diplomatic Correspondent, Sandra Udeike, reports that Nigeria’s 35 member delegation comprising parliamentarians from both the Senate and House of Representatives actively participated in legislative and diplomatic engagements aimed at fostering integration, sustainable development, and political stability across West Africa.
