ECOWAS PARLIAMENT URGES STRICT ENFORCEMENT OF FREE MOVEMENT RIGHTS

To bolster regional integration, the ECOWAS Parliament is intensifying its effort for the full enforcement of protocols on the free movement of people, goods, and the right to residence. 

 

This effort aims to break down barriers that have long hindered trade and cooperation across West Africa.

 

The initiative had a proposed resolution during the Third Extraordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament in Lomé, Togo. 

 

 Calling for strict sanctions against any member states that fail to comply with these key agreements, a step toward deeper regional integration.

 

However, this draft resolution follows critical discussions in Banjul, Gambia, where ECOWAS committees explored ways to improve trade, security, and human rights across the region. 

 

It also highlights the continued need for swift action to remove unnecessary restrictions on movement, which still hinders many citizens in the region.

 

On his part, Dr. Suleiman Abubakar of Nigeria, a prominent member of the joint committee, harped on the pressing need for reform:

Citizens are still facing hurdles, such as paying for residence permits or facing steep taxes on goods at borders, contrary to the spirit of ECOWAS unity.

In response, the committee has put forward a clear solution, aimed at abolishing residence permits across all ECOWAS countries. 

Recommending, a biometric fingerprint scan to allow individuals to live and work freely, revolutionizing how citizens experience movement across the region.

 

The initiative is introducing biometric identity cards for all ECOWAS citizens, to make travel and trade far more efficient. 

 

Even as the Parliament advocates proper training of immigration and customs officials to ensure they fully understand and enforce community protocols, minimizing delays and unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

 

As deliberations continue in Lomé, ECOWAS remains unwavering in its mission to create a more integrated, seamless West Africa, where citizens can thrive without the burden of borders and bureaucracy.

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