ECOWAS Commission President Plays Host to Union Leaders , Reaffirms Commitment to Staff Welfare.
By Raymond Enoch
The President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, has reiterated the Commission’s unwavering commitment to staff welfare and financial integrity following a courtesy visit by a delegation from the ECOWAS Staff Mutual Credit Union (ESMCU) on March 12, 2025.
The meeting, held at the Commission’s headquarters, focused on addressing the pressing issues surrounding staff financial security and the long-term sustainability of the credit union.
Led by Mr. Jimmy IfeIlori, President of ESMCU, the delegation expressed its gratitude for the ongoing support from the ECOWAS Commission. However, it also raised significant concerns about the recent withdrawal of three ECOWAS member states from the union, a move that has cast doubts on the financial stability of ESMCU and the wellbeing of its members, particularly those with financial commitments.
In response, President Touray reassured the delegation that the ECOWAS Commission is committed to safeguarding the financial interests of its staff. He acknowledged the potential challenges posed by the withdrawal of member states and emphasized the Commission’s active role in addressing these challenges through responsible financial management and continued support for staff with outstanding obligations to ESMCU.
“The Ecowas Commission recognizes the critical role that ESMCU plays in supporting the financial wellbeing of our staff. We are actively assessing practical solutions to manage financial commitments responsibly, ensuring that our staff are not adversely affected during this transition,” President Touray stated.
The discussions was focused on preparations for the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) of ESMCU, scheduled for March 27, 2025. The meeting will aim to define strategies for overcoming current financial hurdles and ensuring the continued viability of the credit union. Both ECOWAS and ESMCU have committed to working closely in the coming weeks to develop sustainable solutions for the benefit of all members.
The collaboration between ECOWAS and ESMCU will continue as both institutions explore avenues to enhance financial support mechanisms, strengthen institutional dynamics, and ensure that staff welfare remains a top priority in the face of evolving economic challenges.
As the meeting concluded, President Touray reaffirmed that the ECOWAS Commission remains resolute in its dedication to staff welfare, financial integrity, and fostering institutional collaboration to protect the interests of all ECOWAS staff members.
With the AGM on the horizon, all eyes will be on the outcomes of these discussions, as they are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the credit union and the financial stability of ECOWAS staff.
