News: The recent withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has made global headlines due to its significant political, economic, and security implications.
About Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
- It was established on May 28, 1975, in Lagos, Nigeria through the Treaty of Lagos.
- Headquarters: Abuja, Nigeria.
- Aim: To promote regional integration and economic cooperation among West African countries.
- Member states: There are 15 Member States including Benin, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Toga.
Objectives:
- Enhance trade among member states
- Develop key economic sectors such as transport, energy, agriculture, and finance
- Create a common market by eliminating trade
Key Institutions:
- ECOWAS Commission: The executive arm responsible for policy implementation.
- ECOWAS Parliament: It provides advisory functions.
- ECOWAS Court of Justice: It ensures member states adhere to community laws.
