ECOWAS and IOM Enhance Migration Cooperation in Abuja

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have deepened their cooperation on regional migration matters. This commitment was established during a working visit by IOM Regional Director for West and Central Africa, Sylvia Ekra, to the ECOWAS Commission headquarters in Abuja.

During the visit, the IOM delegation met with ECOWAS Vice-President Anthony Ogunjimi, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture Dehpue Zuo, and Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs Nassirou Bako-Arifari. They held technical sessions to review existing collaborations and identify new opportunities.

The discussions focused on enhancing human mobility, addressing displacement challenges, and ensuring the protection of vulnerable migrants. Both institutions agreed to identify priority actions and realistic timelines for joint initiatives, reaffirming ECOWAS as IOM’s principal regional partner in West Africa and emphasizing the importance of a long-term partnership.