Speaker of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS Parliament, Dr. Sidie Mohamed Tunis, has expressed optimism that the Community Parliament would achieve a lot in its work and mandate in the year 2022.
Dr. Tunis stated this at the closing session of 2021 Second Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament in Abuja, Nigeria.
The Speaker said that considering that 2021 would mark the middle of his tenure and with the level of enthusiasm, they have displayed in 2021, “I have no doubt that it would be a fruitful year.”
Dr. Tunis was elected in March 2020 in Niamey, Niger Republic. Speaker of the 5th Legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament, a position with a four year mandate.
2022 Budget
On the 2022 budget of the ECOWAS Parliament, the Speaker disclosed that the Parliament’s Budget for the year 2022 has been adopted by the ECOWAS Council of Ministers.
Dr. Tunis said that the budget promises to achieve long lasting effects, especially in areas of youth and gender development.
“I wish to use this medium to extend my profound gratitude to the AFC and the Management of the ECOWAS Commission, for supporting the Parliament’s Gender programme by approving funding.
“I wish to pledge that we would utilise the funds appropriately, towards meeting the objectives of promoting gender based issues within the general framework of our current Strategic Plan,” Dr.Tunis explained.
In addition to the consideration of the Community budget, the ECOWAS Parliament Speaker said that the Session also dedicated time to examine several referrals from the ECOWAS Commission.
“One of which was the draft Vision 2050. Here again, I must admit how proud I am with the seriousness with which we approach the assignment. We were able to consider the document and make our recommendations within the shortest time possible. Let me remind us all that the Vision 2050 document is very central to the future of our region,” the Speaker assured.
First Activity in 2022
Dr. Tunis disclosed that the ECOWAS Parliament first activities of the year 2022 will be a Parliamentary Seminar from 26th to 28th January and its First Extraordinary Session from 31st January to 4th February, in Lome, Republic of Togo.
He appealed to all ECOWAS citizens to ensure that they get vaccinated, and keep all the protocols to mitigate the spread of the deadly virus.
He said, “The Covid-19 pandemic continues to remain a challenge to the world, the new variant called OMICRON, is going to be another test for the coming year. “
“I urge everyone to stay strong, steadfast and faithful to the fight against Covid-19. We must ensure we get vaccinated, and keep all the protocols to mitigate the spread of the deadly virus. We have weathered through similar phases in the past and will continue to strive on.
On the election of Members by direct universal suffrage, Dr. Tunis said it remains the cardinal objective of the current Legislature.
“We are optimistic that attaining that feat would lead to a more formidable and stronger Parliament. We would continue to work for its realisation, especially considering the enormous support we appear to be receiving from major stakeholders. This support and encouragement provide us a great light of hope.”
Dr. Tunis pledged the Community parliament’s commitment to carry out its responsibilities to the West African citizens in ensuring peace and harmony in the region.
Confidence Okwuchi
