By Abbas Jimoh
The Oxfam in Nigeria and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) on Tuesday in Abuja 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 was led by Mr. John Makina, Country Director of Oxfam in Nigeria, and Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC.
Speaking during the meeting, 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.
He, however, commended ECOWAS for its commitment to humanity, rural integration, and inclusive development, stressing that Oxfam and its partners are ready to work closely with the Commission to tackle inequality, climate justice, and governance issues while deepening collaboration.
Makina further revealed that Oxfam in West Africa, in partnership with CISLAC and other civil society organisations in the region, has developed a strategy document for 2024–2029.
According to him, the strategy seeks to guide engagement with ECOWAS and secure the commission’s support in addressing inequality and promoting inclusive development across the region.
On his part, Comrade Rafsanjani noted that reducing economic inequality in Nigeria is not just a policy option but a necessity for achieving equitable and sustainable growth. He stressed the importance of advancing human rights, promoting social justice, ending poverty, and building what CISLAC describes as a “human economy” one that places people at the centre rather than profit.
He also announced that CISLAC will soon release its 8th Annual SDG 16 Shadow Report at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
The report independently assesses Nigeria’s progress on peace, justice, and strong institutions, serving as an accountability tool for policymakers, development partners, and citizens.
Rafsanjani reaffirmed CISLAC’s support for the ECOWAS Vision 2050, particularly in addressing regional security challenges, tackling political instability, and promoting credible elections that strengthen trust in governance across Africa.
In his remarks, ECOWAS President Dr. Touray commended the visit and described it as a strategic engagement, stressing the importance of civil society as partners in driving regional integration, peace, security, and trade among West African nations.
He reiterated the unity of West Africa, noting that “our people are one, and no one can divide us.”
He urged civil society organisations to continue sensitising citizens not only about their rights but also about their responsibilities.
Dr. Touray also underscored the growing challenge of disinformation and deep fakes in the region, compounded by gaps in education that make false narratives spread easily. He called for joint efforts by governments, civil society, and the media to counter this trend.
The ECOWAS President further encouraged civil society to intensify advocacy on climate justice, which he said is critical to addressing challenges such as the farmer-herder crisis and other climate-related conflicts. He assured CISLAC and Oxfam of ECOWAS’ readiness to partner on initiatives that advance peace, development, and integration in the region.