The United Nations International Peace and Governance Council has urged African countries to prioritize regional integration as a key strategy to combat insecurity and achieve economic self-sufficiency. The call was made during the 14th Pan-African Leadership Symposium and Honours, which took place in Lagos on Sunday.
In his address on the impact of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger’s withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Ousmane Camara, a presidential candidate in Côte d’Ivoire for 2025, expressed concern over the possibility of other African nations following suit. He stressed the importance of African leaders fostering peace, unity, and reducing external interference in the continent’s affairs.
Camara warned that more countries could leave ECOWAS as the organization faces an increasing crisis. “As long as ECOWAS relies on external funding from powers like the European Union, Canada, and the US, it will continue to face challenges. African leaders must reevaluate their approach to ECOWAS, or we may see more countries exit,” he stated.
Camara further appealed to Nigeria, the continent’s strongest nation, to offer support to Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali in their endeavors, suggesting that their success could inspire future leadership in Nigeria.
In his keynote speech, ‘Arbitration and Negotiation: Panacea for Resolving Emerging Conflicts in Africa,’ Prof. Roland Otaru, SAN, underscored the significance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in addressing conflicts between African nations. Otaru highlighted that arbitration, a method rooted in African tradition and customary law, could offer viable solutions to current tensions.
Senator Grace Bent, Pro-Chancellor of the University of Jos, discussed the critical role of good governance in fostering national unity. She emphasized that a government built on accountability and the rule of law is essential for promoting shared values and nation-building.
Dr. Marshal Jonathan Ojadah, the Second Global President and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, noted that the symposium aimed to tackle the pressing issues facing Africa and to foster sustainable peace on the continent.
The event provided a platform for leaders and experts to deliberate on strategies to overcome the challenges confronting African nations and strengthen the continent’s future.
