Nigerian activist Bishir Dauda celebrates ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary with a 50-day road trip across West Africa, engaging with citizens and officials

A Nigerian activist, Bishir Dauda, has embarked on a 50-day road trip across West Africa to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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On Tuesday, he arrived in Cotonou, Benin Republic, continuing his journey to engage with citizens and officials across the subregion.

ECOWAS, established on 28 May 1975, aims to foster economic integration and political unity among its 15 member states. As the regional bloc reaches its golden jubilee, Dauda sees his journey as a tribute to its achievements and an opportunity to reflect on its challenges.

Upon arriving in Benin, Dauda first visited the ECOWAS Resident Representative’s office, where officials welcomed him. He later engaged with activists, youth groups, and ordinary citizens to discuss ECOWAS’ accomplishments and areas needing improvement.

During discussions, Beninese citizens acknowledged ECOWAS’ progress in several areas, including:

– Free movement of persons and goods
– Harmonisation of trade tariffs
– Promotion of tourism and sporting events
– Humanitarian support and peacekeeping efforts
– Strengthening democracy and good governance

However, they also highlighted ongoing challenges, such as unconstitutional government changes, electoral fraud, breaches of ECOWAS protocols, and weak governance in some member states.

Additional concerns included external interference, inadequate funding, and delays in implementing the ECOWAS common currency, ECO.

Citizens expressed their desire for ECOWAS to prioritise:

– The successful launch of the ECO currency by 2027
– Continued dialogue with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to encourage their return to the bloc
– Strengthening democracy and governance in member states
– Expanding programmes for youth, women, and people with disabilities
– Deploying the ECOWAS Standby Force to tackle security threats like terrorism and insurgency

Many citizens also voiced their support for major ECOWAS infrastructure projects, such as the Lagos-Abidjan Highway and the West African Power Pool, which are expected to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth.

Dauda, the Executive Director of the Citizens Participation Against Corruption Initiatives (CPACI), emphasised that ECOWAS’ resilience and achievements over five decades inspired his solidarity journey.

He believes the organisation must continue fostering unity and cooperation, ensuring that West Africans remain committed to democratic governance and regional development.

His road trip will continue through several ECOWAS member states, with plans to engage more communities in discussions about the future of West African integration.