The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, has received the Dep-uty Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Ambassador Selma Malika Haddafi at the ECOWAS Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria.
The high-level engagement marked a significant step toward reinforcing the strategic partnership between the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The visit was part of a broader effort to consolidate relations among Africa’s regional economic communities (RECs), and to foster a unified continental approach to development, governance, and security.
Central to the discussions was the upcoming Malabo Summit, scheduled under the auspices of the African Union, which will focus on critical thematic areas such as food security and agriculture, humanitarian responses, counter-terrorism strategies, and the rising threat of unconstitutional changes of government across the continent.
Ambassador Haddafi commended ECOWAS for its leadership role and continued commitment to regional peace, democratic governance, and economic integration.
She acknowledged the milestones achieved by the bloc in mediation, conflict prevention and the promotion of democratic norms, stating: “In the face of mounting external pressures and shared challenges, Africa must speak with one voice. The need for coordinated, collective responses is more urgent than ever. Enhanced synergy among RECs is vital for the African Union Commission to effectively engage with international and global partners.”
She further stressed the importance of regular reporting mechanisms, structured dialogue and institutional cooperation as tools to deepen integration and increase Africa’s agency on the global stage.
President Touray welcomed the remarks and reiterated ECOWAS’ steadfast commitment to African unity, economic transformation and institutional collaboration.
“We remain dedicated to strengthening regional value chains, promoting intra-African trade, and upholding good governance through democratic principles. Our shared aspirations for peace, stability, and prosperity must continue to drive our joint initiatives,” he stated.
Dr. Touray highlighted the critical role of inter-REC cooperation, pointing out that African RECs, including ECOWAS, have been working together through established forums to align processes, share best practices, and advance mutual goals.
He noted that ECOWAS had previously chaired the coordinating platform of African RECs before recently handing over to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to deepen institutional ties between the ECOWAS Commission and the African Union Commission, ensuring a coherent continental approach to governance, development, and peace building.
This renewed collaboration signals a shared vision for a stronger, more integrated Africa capable of addressing its challenges with homegrown solutions and standing as a formidable voice in global affairs.
GIK/APA