LUNGI, Sierra Leone – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has called on leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to move beyond policy declarations and ensure that regional integration delivers tangible benefits for citizens through enhanced peace, expanded trade, improved infrastructure and stronger economic opportunities.
Addressing the Summit on the Future of Regional Integration in West Africa and the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Lungi on Sunday, President Boakai said West Africa is at a critical juncture that requires unity, cooperation and decisive leadership to confront growing security, governance and economic challenges.
“The future of West Africa will not be determined by the challenges we face, but by the courage with which we respond to them,” Boakai said. “Let us seize this moment to strengthen our Community, deepen our unity, and build an ECOWAS that is more resilient, more prosperous, and more responsive to the aspirations of our people.”
The Liberian leader congratulated Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio and the people of Sierra Leone for hosting the twin summits and praised Bio’s tenure as outgoing Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, describing it as one marked by steadfast commitment to regional dialogue, peace and cooperation.
Boakai also paid tribute to outgoing ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray and the Commission’s outgoing Vice President for their service during what he described as one of the most challenging periods in the bloc’s history. He commended Touray’s efforts to maintain dialogue with Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger following their withdrawal from ECOWAS, while expressing Liberia’s hope that the three countries would eventually rejoin the regional organization.
The President welcomed Senegal’s assumption of the presidency of the ECOWAS Commission and Nigeria’s appointment as Vice President of the Commission, pledging Liberia’s full cooperation in advancing the organization’s objectives.
Focusing on the future of regional integration, Boakai stressed that ECOWAS must ensure its policies translate into practical improvements in the lives of ordinary West Africans. He reaffirmed Liberia’s support for the Compact for the Future of Regional Integration, saying the bloc’s success should be measured by greater peace, increased commerce, job creation, improved infrastructure and stronger economic resilience.
Boakai also welcomed the signing of the Inter-Governmental Agreement establishing the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline, describing it as a landmark initiative that underscores the benefits of regional cooperation and collective investment.
He urged member states to eliminate obstacles to regional trade by removing unnecessary levies, reducing non-tariff barriers, simplifying border procedures and promoting the free movement of goods, services and people across West Africa.
Reflecting on Liberia’s recent election to the United Nations Security Council, Boakai reaffirmed the country’s commitment to advancing the interests of ECOWAS and Africa on the global stage. He pledged Liberia’s continued support for peacebuilding, preventive diplomacy, constitutional governance, conflict resolution and sustainable development as foundations for regional stability.
The Liberian President also welcomed progress in resolving the longstanding border issue between Liberia and Guinea, expressing optimism that ongoing dialogue with the support of the ECOWAS Commission would lead to a peaceful and mutually acceptable settlement.
Boakai thanked ECOWAS member states for entrusting qualified Liberians with key positions within the regional body, saying Liberia accepts the responsibility with humility and remains committed to serving the Community with professionalism and integrity.
On broader continental issues, the President joined fellow African leaders in condemning recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, emphasizing the importance of African solidarity, unity and mutual respect.
He concluded by urging West African leaders to remain committed to the vision of ECOWAS’ founding fathers by strengthening regional solidarity, promoting shared prosperity and safeguarding collective security.
