Nigeria Urges Stronger ECOWAS, Denounces Afrophobia Against Africans in South Africa
Nigeria has called for a stronger and more united Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) while condemning the growing wave of Afrophobia and attacks on African migrants in South Africa.
The position was presented by Vice President Kashim Shettima during the 69th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS held in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shettima emphasized the need for greater regional cooperation to tackle insecurity, economic challenges and threats to the unity of the African continent.
The Vice President stressed that ECOWAS must remain resilient and responsive to emerging challenges facing West Africa, including terrorism, violent extremism, political instability, food insecurity and economic pressures. He said stronger collaboration among member states was essential to safeguarding peace, democracy and sustainable development across the region.
Addressing the issue of Afrophobia, Shettima expressed Nigeria’s concern over recurring attacks on African nationals living in South Africa. He described such incidents as unacceptable and inconsistent with the spirit of African unity, urging governments across the continent to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence and the protection of the rights of all African citizens regardless of their country of origin.
He noted that African countries share a common history and destiny, making it important for leaders to discourage hate, discrimination and violence against fellow Africans. According to him, strengthening solidarity among African nations remains crucial to achieving the objectives of the African Union and regional economic communities.
Shettima also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the ideals of ECOWAS, stating that the country would continue to support initiatives aimed at enhancing regional integration, expanding intra-African trade and improving the welfare of citizens across West Africa.
The ECOWAS summit brought together presidents, vice presidents and senior government officials from member states to deliberate on pressing regional issues. Discussions focused on security, constitutional governance, economic integration, humanitarian challenges and strategies for accelerating development within the sub-region.
Leaders at the summit also reviewed the security situation in West Africa, particularly the fight against terrorism and transnational crime. They considered measures to strengthen cooperation among security agencies and improve the capacity of member states to respond to emerging threats.
Observers say Nigeria’s renewed call for a stronger ECOWAS reflects the country’s long-standing leadership role within the regional bloc. As one of the founding members of ECOWAS, Nigeria has consistently played a central role in peacekeeping operations, conflict resolution and economic cooperation across West Africa.
The condemnation of Afrophobia comes amid growing concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in parts of South Africa following reports of attacks targeting migrants from other African countries. Nigerian authorities have repeatedly urged host governments to ensure the protection of lives and property while encouraging diplomatic engagement to address the underlying causes of such incidents.
As the summit concludes, member states are expected to adopt resolutions aimed at strengthening regional institutions, improving security cooperation and advancing economic integration. Nigeria has reaffirmed its readiness to work with other West African nations to promote peace, unity and prosperity while advocating respect for the rights and dignity of all Africans.
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