The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched four transformative projects worth €110 million to strengthen peace, security, trade, and institutional reforms across West Africa. Funded by the European Union (€82.5 million), Germany (€26 million), and other partners, the initiatives were unveiled on June 17 in Abuja, marking a significant step toward realizing ECOWAS’ Vision 2050 for a citizen-centered, prosperous region.

The projects include the ECOWAS Peace, Security and Governance Project (EPSG), support for implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Trade in Services Programme, the Organisational Development/Institutional Support to ECOWAS Phase II, and the Africa Trade Competitiveness and Market Access (ATCMA) Programme. Together, they aim to fortify regional stability, modernize trade systems, and enhance institutional capacity.

ECOWAS Commission President Alieu Touray emphasized the projects’ alignment with the bloc’s strategic priorities. “These initiatives bolster peace and security, enhance institutional effectiveness, and promote sustainable trade,” Touray said. He noted that the ECOWAS Peace Fund requires $300 million to execute its five-year plan, underscoring the critical role of international partnerships.

Amid ongoing challenges, including the planned exit of some member states, Touray reaffirmed ECOWAS’ commitment to maintaining trade and free movement protocols until new agreements are reached. “We will preserve the status quo in all areas,” he said, signaling continuity in regional cooperation.

German Ambassador to Nigeria Annett Günther highlighted the projects’ role in fostering regional integration. “Trade drives employment and innovation, reducing the likelihood of conflict,” she said. “These initiatives reflect our shared commitment to a stable, democratic, and prosperous West Africa.”

EU Ambassador to ECOWAS and Nigeria Gautier Mignot described the projects as part of a cohesive vision where peace, integration, and economic opportunities reinforce each other. “The EU’s history shows that united nations are stronger and more resilient,” Mignot said, pledging continued support for ECOWAS’ efforts to address security challenges and boost trade.

Spain’s Deputy Head of Mission María Higón Velasco reaffirmed Madrid’s long-standing partnership with ECOWAS, announcing €984,000 in funding for institutional strengthening, co-financed with the EU and Germany’s KfW Development Bank for a total of €7.4 million. “These projects align with ECOWAS’ core priorities of trade competitiveness, peace, and governance,” Velasco said, noting Spain’s Fiat Foundation will aid efforts to counter disinformation and electoral violence.

The initiatives promise tangible benefits, from modernizing cross-border trade to empowering the private sector and enhancing regional security frameworks. With a focus on accountability and joint decision-making, ECOWAS and its partners aim to deliver lasting impact, fostering a more cohesive and resilient West Africa.