By Abdullahi Alhassan
Kaduna State, Nigeria - September 16, 2025 (Series News Online)
Oxfam in Nigeria and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) have met with the President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, to explore deeper collaboration on peace, security, climate justice, and regional integration.
The delegation, led by Mr. John Makina, Country Director of Oxfam in Nigeria, and Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC, discussed ways to tackle inequality, climate justice, and governance issues in the region. Makina described inequality in West Africa as a crisis that demands urgent attention, noting that the region faces greater inequality challenges compared to other African blocs.
"Oxfam and its partners are ready to work closely with the Commission to tackle inequality, climate justice, and governance issues while deepening collaboration," Makina said. He revealed that Oxfam in West Africa, in partnership with CISLAC and other civil society organisations, has developed a strategy document for 2024-2029 to guide engagement with ECOWAS and secure the Commission's support in addressing inequality and promoting inclusive development.
Rafsanjani emphasized that reducing economic inequality in Nigeria is not just a policy option but a necessity for achieving equitable and sustainable growth. "We need to advance human rights, promote social justice, end poverty, and build a 'human economy' that places people at the centre rather than profit," he said.
The ECOWAS President, Dr. Touray, welcomed the visit and described it as a strategic engagement. "Civil society is a crucial partner in driving regional integration, peace, security, and trade among West African nations," he said. He urged civil society organisations to continue sensitising citizens about their rights and responsibilities.
Dr. Touray also highlighted the growing challenge of disinformation and deep fakes in the region and called for joint efforts to counter this trend. He encouraged civil society to intensify advocacy on climate justice, which is critical to addressing challenges such as the farmer-herder crisis and other climate-related conflicts.
The meeting concluded with an assurance from Dr. Touray of ECOWAS' readiness to partner with CISLAC and Oxfam on initiatives that advance peace, development, and integration in the region.
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