The Nigerian Delegation to ECOWAS Parliament has presented its country report to the 2023 Second Ordinary Session of the Community Parliament in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
The report which was presented by Linda Ikpeazu, outlined the country’s progress in the areas of politics, security, economy, and human rights.
On the Security situation of the country, the report highlighted the challenges posed by insecurity in Nigeria, including the Boko Haram insurgency, the rise of criminal gangs in the South-East region and the threat of secessionist movements, affirming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s pledge to prioritise security and has replaced the country’s service chiefs to address these challenges.
On the economic front, the report noted that Nigeria’s economy has been affected by many factors, including the recent Naira redesign policy, low crude oil output, high inflation, and weak growth of the private sector. Despite these challenges, the economy is expected to grow by 2.6% in 2024.
The report noted that Nigeria’s Supreme Court affirmed the results of the country’s presidential election on October 26, 2023.
Following his inauguration, according to the report President Tinubu pledged to work more closely with member nations to ensure the implementation of ECOWAS decisions and policies.
The report expressed concern about the human rights situation in Nigeria, including violations that occurred during the off-cycle governorship elections in Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa states. The government has pledged to investigate these violations and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Not left out is the status of the Implementation of Community Texts. The report emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to implementing ECOWAS texts, including the Protocol Relating to the Community Levy, the Protocol on Free Movement of Persons and Goods, and the Supplementary Act on Equality of Rights Between Women and Men for Sustainable Development in the ECOWAS Region.
It concluded that Nigeria is committed to advancing the growth of the ECOWAS region through various community development initiatives. The government is also committed to fulfilling its obligations under ECOWAS treaties and protocols.
