ECOWAS Parliament Advocates for Enhanced Regional Trade

The ECOWAS Parliament, in a press briefing held in Abuja on Thursday, called for stronger regional trade participation to enhance economic cooperation across West Africa. Mr.

Kabeer Garba, the Director of Parliamentary Affairs and Research at the ECOWAS Parliament, represented Speaker M. Mounat Ibrahim and highlighted the importance of the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme and the Free Movement Protocol.

He noted that these initiatives are designed to ensure that West Africans benefit from regional programs, although many traders remain unaware of the economic opportunities available. Dr.

Victoria Akai, Chief Executive Officer of Duchess Natur, emphasized the private sector's critical role in translating regional policies into economic opportunities for citizens. The anniversary program aims to strengthen trade, entrepreneurship, and innovation across the region, featuring initiatives like the ECOWAS Smart Challenge and a regional trade forum.

Dr. Olori Boy Ajayi noted that the program serves as a platform for collaboration among policymakers, entrepreneurs, and financial institutions to explore new cross-border commerce opportunities.