The President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, H.E. General Birame Diop, has received the Head of the European Union (EU) Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, H.E. Ambassador Gauthier Mignot, to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation between the two institutions.
The meeting took place on October 9, 2026, at the new ECOWAS Commission Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria, during a courtesy visit by the EU ambassador and his delegation.
Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in peace and security, border management, democracy and the rule of law, economic integration, trade and market access, as well as other areas of mutual interest.
EU Reaffirms Commitment to ECOWAS Partnership
During the meeting, Ambassador Mignot reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to its partnership with ECOWAS, describing the regional commission as a strategic and valued partner.
He also expressed the EU’s readiness to deepen and broaden cooperation with ECOWAS based on mutual interests and priorities.
The engagement provided an opportunity for both institutions to explore ways to improve collaboration on shared regional priorities, particularly those relating to stability, governance and economic development across West Africa.
Diop Calls for Stronger Coordination
In his response, General Diop expressed appreciation to the European Union for its longstanding support and partnership with ECOWAS.
He underscored the need for enhanced cooperation, stronger coordination and greater cohesion in the planning and implementation of joint programmes.
According to the ECOWAS Commission, Diop emphasised that closer collaboration between the two institutions is essential to ensuring the sustainability of joint initiatives, strengthening institutional capacity and improving service delivery to citizens across the ECOWAS Community.
Focus on Regional Peace and Economic Integration
The meeting reaffirmed the importance both institutions attach to their partnership and their shared commitment to advancing regional development.
ECOWAS and the EU are seeking to strengthen cooperation in support of regional peace and security, democratic governance, economic integration and sustainable development across West Africa.
The engagement highlights the continued importance of collaboration between the West African regional bloc and the European Union in addressing shared challenges and supporting the region’s development priorities.
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