ECOWAS PAPS Rallies Global Partners in Lagos to Counter Misinformation, AI Misuse ,Amid Shifting World Order. By Raymond Enoch
In a bold move to reposition West Africa within a rapidly changing global landscape, the Economic Community of West African States has convened a high-level thematic consultation aimed at strengthening strategic partnerships and confronting emerging threats driven by misinformation and the negative use of artificial intelligence.
The three-day consultation, spearheaded by the Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS), began in Lagos Nigeria on February 24 and runs through February 27, 2026. It brings together policymakers, security experts, diplomats, scholars and development partners to re-examine the Community’s strategic posture at a time when global power dynamics are shifting at an unprecedented pace.
At the heart of the discussions is a pressing concern: West Africa is increasingly becoming a theatre of geostrategic rivalry, where foreign interests intersect with fragile democratic transitions, security vulnerabilities and a digitally connected but highly exposed population.
Participants are discussing the evolving influence of global financial institutions, the implications of the digital revolution, and the rapid advancement — and misuse — of artificial intelligence. Of particular concern is the weaponization of disinformation, the rise of deepfakes, autonomous weapons systems, and coordinated digital propaganda campaigns capable of undermining democratic governance and regional stability.
Officials within PAPS say the consultation is not merely reflective, but forward-looking. The objective is to develop a proactive framework that enhances ECOWAS’ early warning mechanisms, sharpens its diplomatic engagement, and fortifies partnerships with both traditional and emerging global actors.
“This is about anticipating tomorrow’s risks today,” a senior official close to the consultations noted. “Artificial intelligence and digital technologies present immense opportunities, but without clear safeguards and collective action, they can deepen instability and erode public trust.”
The consultation also explores how ECOWAS can better align with global governance reforms, particularly as Bretton Woods institutions adapt to new economic realities. Delegates are examining how the region can assert its voice more strategically within multilateral platforms while protecting its sovereignty and democratic norms.
Security analysts at the meeting stressed that misinformation campaigns have increasingly targeted electoral processes, peace operations, and public institutions across the region. In several member states, false narratives amplified online have fueled tensions, distorted public discourse and weakened institutional credibility.
By convening the Lagos consultation, ECOWAS PAPS is signaling its determination to move from reactive crisis management to anticipatory strategic planning. The discussions are expected to culminate in concrete recommendations that will guide the Community’s engagement with global partners and strengthen resilience across member states.
For ECOWAS, the message is clear: in a world defined by digital disruption and geopolitical competition, regional unity, strategic partnerships and information integrity will be decisive pillars for safeguarding West Africa’s future.
As deliberations continue, stakeholders say the outcome of this consultation could shape how the regional bloc navigates the intersection of technology, security and diplomacy in the years ahead — ensuring that innovation becomes a tool for development rather than a trigger for division.
