Oxfam in Nigeria and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) have urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission to intensify efforts on tackling inequality, strengthening regional integration, and advancing climate justice across West Africa.
By Chimezie Godfrey
Oxfam in Nigeria and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) have urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission to intensify efforts on tackling inequality, strengthening regional integration, and advancing climate justice across West Africa.
The call was made during a visit to the ECOWAS President, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, by a delegation led by Mr. John Makina, Oxfam Country Director in Nigeria, and Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC.
Makina warned that inequality in West Africa has reached a crisis point. “The region faces greater inequality challenges compared to other African blocs,” he said, while commending ECOWAS for its commitment to inclusive development. He disclosed that Oxfam, in partnership with CISLAC and other civil society groups, has developed a 2024–2029 strategy document to deepen collaboration with ECOWAS on governance, climate justice, and inclusive growth.
On his part, Rafsanjani said addressing inequality in Nigeria and the region is a necessity for sustainable growth. “Reducing economic inequality is not just a policy option but a necessity for achieving equitable and sustainable growth,” he stressed. He added that CISLAC’s soon-to-be-released 8th Annual SDG 16 Shadow Report at the UN General Assembly would independently assess Nigeria’s progress on peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Rafsanjani further reaffirmed CISLAC’s support for ECOWAS Vision 2050, particularly in addressing insecurity, political instability, and promoting credible elections.
Responding, ECOWAS President Dr. Touray described the engagement as strategic, noting the importance of civil society in advancing peace, security, and trade in the region. “Our people are one, and no one can divide us,” he said, while urging civil society to continue sensitising citizens on both their rights and responsibilities.
Touray also raised concerns over disinformation and deep fakes, which he said thrive due to educational gaps. “False narratives spread easily, and this is dangerous for the region. Governments, civil society, and the media must work together to counter this,” he cautioned.
He further encouraged stronger advocacy on climate justice, linking it to conflicts such as the farmer-herder crisis. He assured the delegation of ECOWAS’ readiness to partner with civil society on initiatives that advance peace, development, and integration across West Africa.
