The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has started a two-day technical session to advance the creation of an ECOWAS Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in Niger State, Nigeria, under the auspices of the ECOWAS Commission’s Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS).
The meeting, which began on June 26, 2025, brings together officials from important ECOWAS departments, directorates, and divisions, as well as consultants and regional partners. Their joint task is to build on the momentum of earlier consultative phases and lay the foundation for a formal and functional ECOWAS-ECOSOC.
Key pillars for the proposed body, such as its rationale, composition, membership requirements, and long-term viability, are the main topics of discussion during the session. In order to promote inclusive development, political stability, and democratic governance throughout West Africa, the organizers stressed that ECOSOC will serve as a vital forum for regional lobbying, policy input, and discussion. 
A firmly established ECOWAS-ECOSOC is expected to play a significant role in identifying and addressing emerging socio-economic challenges, such as poverty, inequality, conflict, environmental pressures, and political instability. Through structured engagement with civil society and other non-state actors, the council aims to create a bridge between ECOWAS institutions and West African citizens.
The current session builds upon previous milestones, including An Internal Consultative Meeting of ECOWAS staff held in Lagos (December 12–13, 2023), A regional civil society consultative forum in Abuja (February 22–23, 2024), And an experts’ group meeting in Cotonou, Benin (June 12–13, 2024).
These foundational meetings have set the stage for a more inclusive and responsive regional governance framework, reinforcing ECOWAS’ broader objectives of promoting peace, security, participatory governance, and sustainable development.
As consultations move forward, the establishment of ECOSOC is poised to become a cornerstone in ECOWAS’ drive to ensure that the voices of West Africans are heard and reflected in regional policies and solutions.
