By Gloria Ikibah
First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Jibrin Barau, has reiterated the bloc’s determination to achieve regional economic integration and a single currency, despite recent challenges, including the withdrawal of three Sahelian nations.
Addressing journalists at the 1st Extraordinary Session of ECOWAS for 2025 in Lagos, Barau emphasised that uniting the region economically remains a top priority.
He dismissed colonial-era borders as artificial divisions, insisting that West Africans have always been one people. He highlighted the region’s shared linguistic and cultural ties as a natural foundation for economic unification.
Barau pointed to existing infrastructure projects facilitating regional economic integration, such as cross-border highways, healthcare systems, and aviation connections.
Drawing parallels with Europe’s economic model, he expressed confidence that the single currency initiative would eventually become a reality.
“The intention of ECOWAS is to unify so that we can be one entity. We’ve always been one people before colonial demarcations. Whether in Nigeria, Ghana, Benin, or Côte d’Ivoire, we share cultural and linguistic ties,” he said.
“We are working on ensuring that we have a single currency just like in Europe. One currency, one people, one aspiration, one destiny,” he added.
Regarding the withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS, Barau maintained that the door remains open for their return.
He acknowledged that ECOWAS respects each nation’s sovereignty but urged them to uphold international democratic standards.
“We are willing to work with them. They should democratise and try to sit at the table to see how democracy can be strengthened,” he said.
Barau explained that ECOWAS does not interfere in the internal affairs of member states but expects all nations to adhere to internationally recognised democratic principles.
He remained optimistic that the Sahel states would eventually return to the regional bloc.
“They are our brothers, and I can assure you that one day they will be back,” he stated.
The regional body has been working on multiple fronts to foster economic and political unity.
In addition to the proposed single currency, ECOWAS is advancing key projects aimed at improving cross-border mobility, trade, and infrastructure.
Despite recent challenges, Barau’s remarks reflect a strong commitment from the ECOWAS Parliament to overcome obstacles and achieve long-term integration.
With continued dialogue and diplomatic efforts, the dream of a unified West African economy remains within reach.
