ECOWAS Parliament Speaker Memounatou Ibrahima Pushes for Private Sector-Driven Regional Integration at 25th Anniversary
The Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Memounatou Ibrahima, has called for stronger policies capable of converting regional integration efforts into real economic opportunities for citizens and businesses across West Africa.
At a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday to commemorate the parliament’s 25th anniversary, PulseNets learnt that the Speaker emphasised the need for regional cooperation to go beyond diplomatic commitments and begin delivering measurable economic benefits for ordinary people.
Ibrahima stressed that deepening engagement with the private sector would play a decisive role in stimulating trade, innovation and employment across the West African region.
“As the private sector across the region continues to expand its role in various sectors, ECOWAS institutions remain critical partners in shaping an integrated and prosperous regional economy,” she said.
PulseNets reported that the Speaker also highlighted the strategic role of the regional parliament in promoting democratic governance, encouraging citizen participation in the integration process and strengthening economic cooperation among member states of the Economic Community of West African States.
According to her, closer collaboration with businesses and development organisations will be essential in tackling persistent barriers to trade while expanding support for small and medium enterprises, women-led businesses and young entrepreneurs across West Africa.
“Regional integration requires collaboration that goes beyond public institutions. We are partnering with private sector actors whose expertise in trade facilitation, SMEs development, women’s empowerment and youth innovation aligns with our objectives,” she said.
As part of programmes marking the parliament’s silver jubilee, PulseNets learnt that the regional legislative body will partner with several private organisations, including Borderless Trade and Investment and Duchess Nigeria Limited, to host a series of regional engagements.
The anniversary activities, PulseNets obtained, will be held across several West African countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Cabo Verde, Togo and Sierra Leone.
The programmes are expected to spotlight entrepreneurship, youth-driven innovation and expanded trade opportunities within the ECOWAS region.
Managing Partner of Borderless Trade and Investment, Olori Doye, told PulseNets that the organisation remains committed to supporting initiatives that deepen economic integration across West African markets.
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PulseNets also spoke to Victoria Akai of Duchess Nigeria Limited, who disclosed that several private sector stakeholders, including financial institutions, have already indicated strong interest in participating in the anniversary programmes.
The planned activities will feature youth innovation competitions, small business forums, support initiatives for women entrepreneurs and civic awareness campaigns aimed at strengthening regional integration across West Africa.
