ECOWAS Reinforces Commitment to Safeguarding Children, Validates Joint 2026 Protection Plan.
By Raymond Enoch
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reaffirmed its strong commitment to protecting children across the region, as the Commission—through its Directorate of Humanitarian and Social Affairs—convened two high-level engagements in Dakar, Senegal, from October 20 to 24, 2025.
The meetings brought together Member State Directors responsible for child protection, United Nations agencies, and civil society organizations to enhance coordinated action and accountability in advancing the rights and welfare of children in West Africa.
Speaking on behalf of the ECOWAS Commission, Mr. Olatunde Olayemi emphasized that child protection remains a strategic and political priority for the regional bloc. He highlighted ongoing initiatives including the ECOWAS Child Policy (2019–2030), the Regional Action Plans on Child Labour and Trafficking, and the ECOWAS Child Rights Information Management System (ECRIMS)—tools designed to strengthen data-driven policymaking and regional coordination.
“The ECOWAS Commission continues to prioritize child protection as a cornerstone of social development and regional stability,” Mr. Olayemi stated. “Through stronger partnerships, shared data, and aligned policies, we are ensuring that no child in West Africa is left behind or left unprotected.”
The week-long engagements culminated in the validation of the Joint ECOWAS–GRPE Operational Plan for 2026, which outlines concrete steps for improving coordination between governments, regional bodies, and partners. The plan aims to foster safer and more protective environments for children across West Africa, addressing challenges such as exploitation, trafficking, and child labour through harmonized regional action.
Participants underscored the importance of sustained political will, cross-border cooperation, and investment in social systems to ensure that every child in the ECOWAS region can grow up free from abuse and neglect.
With the new Operational Plan now endorsed, ECOWAS and its partners have set a renewed course toward ensuring that children across West Africa are protected, empowered, and given the opportunity to thrive.
