ECOWAS and its partners invest in strengthening the coordination mechanism under the ise ii project.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) External Relations Directorate, in collaboration with the Spanish Cooperation through the ISE II project, hosted a capacity building and retreat for ECOWAS Directorates on September 18-19, 2025, in Niger State, Nigeria.

The two-day event brought together representatives from various ECOWAS departments to enhance coordination mechanisms and promote effective implementation of the regional integration agenda.

During the Opening Ceremony, Mr. Jerome Boa, Director of External Relations, on behalf of the President of the ECOWAS Commission, SEM Omar Alieu Touray, emphasized the critical importance of strong coordination mechanisms for effective implementation of the regional integration agenda. He stressed that inter-collaboration among directorates is essential for the successful implementation of development partners’ projects. He also commended the ECOWAS and Spain partnership.

Representing the Spanish Agency for Cooperation, Mr. Santiago Ormeño García, Head of AECID in Nigeria and ECOWAS, stated that regional integration requires internal coordination and partnerships. “Spain is proud to be part of the ISE II project and supporting ECOWAS in its mission of bringing the West African community together. Regional integration delivers livelihoods and improves citizens’ lives,” he added.

The Spanish Cooperation and the EU’s support to ECOWAS underscores their commitment to promoting economic development and regional integration in West Africa.