News:
February 23, 2026
The ECOWAS Parliament has officially opened its First Extraordinary Session for 2026 in Abuja, Nigeria, with Speaker Rt. Hon. Ibrahima Menunatou urging member states to prioritize peace, democratic governance, and regional security.
In her opening remarks, Speaker Menunatou expressed the Parliament’s hope for credible and peaceful elections in three member states—The Gambia, Benin, and Cape Verde—while calling for continued political dialogue in Guinea-Bissau.
She also welcomed the lifting of sanctions against Guinea following the December 2025 presidential election and congratulated President Mamadi Doumbouya and the people of Guinea on the successful conduct of the polls.
The Speaker highlighted the session’s strategic priorities, which include adopting the Parliament’s annual work programme for 2026. This programme will guide parliamentary sessions, committee meetings, oversight missions, and civic engagement initiatives throughout the year.
Regional Security a Top Concern
Addressing the subregion’s pressing security challenges, Speaker Menunatou warned that terrorism, violent extremism, and transnational crime continue to threaten the stability of the bloc. “Security solidarity is not optional; it is an obligation,” she stated, calling for strengthened cooperation, enhanced intelligence sharing, and the effective deployment of the ECOWAS Standby Force.
Advancing Women’s Leadership
The Speaker also underscored the need for greater women’s participation in leadership and governance. While acknowledging progress in achieving a 30 percent quota for women in parliamentary delegations and national laws, she emphasized the need for more transformative impact.
“I commend the ECOWAS Female Parliamentarians Association (ECOFEPA) and urge it to move from advocacy to measurable action,” she said.
A Call for Purposeful Deliberations
As the session unfolds, Speaker Menunatou urged lawmakers to engage in rigorous and purpose-driven debates. “Let us deliberate with rigor and purpose. Our decisions shape the future of our citizens. These debates must yield clear orientations, actionable recommendations, and transformative resolutions,” she emphasized.
The Extraordinary Session is expected to set the tone for the Parliament’s legislative and oversight agenda for the year ahead.
Kwaku Sakyi-Danso / Ghanamps.com