ECOWAS Parliamentarians Push for Legislative Power in 2026

Members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament are advocating for enhanced legislative powers to effectively address the region's climate crisis, migration, and security challenges. This call for action was made by Nigerian lawmakers Ali Ndume and Awaji Abiante during the 2026 Second Extraordinary Session and Seminar in Accra, Ghana.

The parliamentarians expressed concerns that the current framework limits their role to advisory functions, hindering their ability to hold the executive accountable. They emphasized that climate change drives environmental degradation and population displacement, complicating regional security.

Hon. Abiante stressed the need for the parliament to have greater legislative authority to compel the implementation of its recommendations. Ndume lamented the parliament's institutional weaknesses, questioning the effectiveness of its advisory role.

He pointed out that the ECOWAS Parliament's legal framework allows for responsibilities in regional integration and security, but the distinction between advisory functions and full legislative authority is crucial for accountability.