ECOWAS Parliament Wraps 2026 Launch with AfCFTA Focus, Thanks Tinubu for Hosting

By Linda Ike

The ECOWAS Parliament concluded its first engagement of 2026 today, wrapping up a three-day seminar on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and its inaugural extraordinary session, hosted graciously by Nigeria.

Speaker of the Parliament, Mémounatou Ibrahima, praised Nigerian hospitality extended by President Bola Tinubu and his government. She commended lawmakers, experts, and representatives from the ECOWAS Commission, Court of Justice, and Auditor General’s Office for fostering regional unity.

The AfCFTA seminar highlighted high stakes alongside challenges like non-tariff barriers, legal harmonisation delays, infrastructure gaps, and risks to women, youth, and informal traders.

Ibrahima urged parliamentarians to advocate for ratification, monitor policy alignment, and promote opportunities to citizens, positioning the body as a driver of inclusive integration.

Lawmakers adopted the Parliament’s 2026 program, centered on citizen participation, institutional strengthening, peace and governance, and facilitation.

They also greenlit ECOWAS Female Parliamentarians (ECOFEPA’s) activities, emphasising women’s role in integration.

Facing political transitions, security threats, economic woes, and climate crises, Ibrahima stressed ECOWAS unity as a shield, calling for the Parliament to champion democracy and translate session ideas into reforms across member states.