The ECOWAS Parliament recently called for enhanced participation in regional trade in West Africa, encouraging both businesses and citizens to leverage existing integration frameworks to promote cross-border commerce. This announcement was made during a press briefing in Abuja, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Parliament, where leaders discussed the importance of regional economic cooperation.

Kabeer Garba, the Director of Parliamentary Affairs and Research at the ECOWAS Parliament, emphasized that the objective is to ensure that the citizens of West Africa reap the benefits of regional programs, including the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme and the free movement protocol, which are designed to facilitate trade and enhance economic connectivity among member states. He represented the Speaker, Mémounatou Ibrahima, underlining the Parliament's commitment to improving the welfare of West Africans through robust integration and economic initiatives.

The call for stronger regional trade comes at a time when West African nations are looking for solutions to economic challenges exacerbated by global shifts and local disruptions. By strengthening regional trade participation, the ECOWAS Parliament aims to not only boost economic activity but also to promote innovative solutions that can address local needs and enhance the overall quality of life for citizens across the subregion.