ECOWAS and UN to Deepen Collaboration on Political Cooperation, Security, and Human Development
By Raymond Enoch
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations (UN) have reaffirmed their commitment to fostering stronger ties in political cooperation, security, and human development.
The President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Omar Alieu Touray, hosted the Deputy Secretary-General of the UN, H.E. Amina Mohammed, in Abuja for high-level discussions aimed at deepening collaboration between the two organizations.
During the meeting, both leaders identified key areas of mutual interest for enhanced engagement, including political cooperation, peace and security, trade liberalization, education, regional integration, and human development. These areas, considered critical to the stability and progress of the West African region, will guide joint efforts in addressing regional challenges.
President Touray lauded the longstanding partnership between ECOWAS and the UN, emphasizing the importance of coordinated action in tackling pressing issues such as violent extremism, climate change, and socioeconomic inequality. He reiterated ECOWAS’ commitment to its regional agenda and called for sustained support from the UN in achieving shared objectives.
DSG Amina Mohammed, on her first high-level visit to the ECOWAS Commission in 2025, highlighted the UN’s readiness to bolster regional integration efforts and support ECOWAS in driving sustainable development. She noted the critical role of regional organizations in achieving global goals, such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
“This collaboration underscores the shared vision of ECOWAS and the UN to create a peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive region. By strengthening our partnerships, we can address the challenges of today while building a foundation for future generations,” Mohammed said.
The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to establish follow-up mechanisms to ensure tangible progress in the identified areas of collaboration. This initiative is expected to enhance the stability and development of the ECOWAS region while reinforcing the strategic partnership between ECOWAS and the UN.
