By Khalid Idris Doya
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has emphasized the importance of regional unity, economic integration, and inclusive governance in addressing the challenges facing West Africa. The Governor made the remarks while speaking as a discussant at the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held at Christ Church College, University of Oxford.
According to Governor Mohammed, poor governance, trust deficit, and weak institutional accountability are some of the challenges hindering the progress of the West African community. "These failures are not abstract, as they impact people's lives every day," he said. The Governor highlighted the importance of rooted responsibility, transparency, and empowerment in leadership, citing the ongoing reforms in Bauchi State under his "Bauchi Project" as a model for development.
Governor Mohammed noted that Bauchi State's strides in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic empowerment are a microcosm of the broader regional aspirations. He called for increased cooperation among West African nations to harness shared resources and address common challenges, reinforcing the vision of a united and prosperous ECOWAS.
The global forum, which brought together policymakers, academics, students, scholars, and political leaders, aimed to encourage open dialogue on the bloc's legacy and its uncertain future. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, a pivotal figure in the development of ECOWAS, was the keynote speaker. Obasanjo reflected on the bloc's early achievements in promoting free movement, economic integration, and social inclusion, but cautioned that these gains are now under threat due to political divisions, inconsistent leadership, and the emergence of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
"The trust that once existed among West African leaders is eroding. Without cooperation and committed leadership, the region cannot move forward," Obasanjo warned. His remarks come amid rising concerns over instability and the formation of competing alliances, particularly the AES, established by the military-led governments of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso in direct defiance of ECOWAS.
The event highlighted the crucial importance of leadership and collective action in advancing regional integration and development, with Governor Mohammed's contributions underscoring his dedication to these shared goals.