By: TPA News Desk | editor@thepointafricanews.com

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening strategic dialogue on regional peace, security, and development cooperation. This commitment was highlighted during a high-level meeting held on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, in Abuja.

Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, hosted the Head of the European Union Delegation (EUD) to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Gautier Mignot. They were joined by Ms. Agnieszka TORRES DE OLIVEIRA, Political Officer from the EU Delegation.

The discussions focused on deepening ongoing collaboration, recognizing the shared geographical proximity and strategic interests between the two blocs. Ambassador Musah underscored critical security concerns in the Gulf of Guinea and the Sahel region, emphasizing that instability in one area often impacts others. He also stressed the growing aspiration among African nations for industrialization to add value to local products, deeming it a priority for sustainable development.

Furthermore, the Commissioner addressed the urgency of addressing irregular migration through investment in youth integration and empowerment. “If we do not effectively address the demographic shift, we risk losing our youth to instability and migration. This is a challenge that requires collective action,” Ambassador Musah stated.

In response, Ambassador Mignot reiterated the European Union’s unwavering commitment to West Africa, asserting, “We cannot allow West Africa to go down the drain. Our basic interest is to have a stable, democratic West Africa.” He highlighted the importance of existing EU-ECOWAS projects and cooperation in democratic governance and regional security.

The meeting concluded with a renewed pledge for continued strategic dialogue and practical cooperation, aimed at fostering regional stability, economic resilience, and the overall well-being of West African citizens.