President BOLA TINUBU of Nigeria has called on member countries of the regional body to, as a matter of necessity, ratify and fully implement the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) protocol against corruption.
President TINUBU, who is the chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, also charged the leaders to join forces in the fight against corruption, emphasizing that the region’s future depends on creating transparent, accountable, and efficient governance structures.
Speaking at the 6th annual General Assembly of the Network of National Anti-Corruption Institutions in West Africa at the ECOWAS Headquarters in Abuja, President TINUBU stressed the enormity of the task but expressed confidence in the collective resolve of member states to combat corruption.
The President, who was represented by Vice President KASHIM SHETTIMA highlighted the dangers of corruption, which he said undermines societal fabric, erodes public trust, and hinders equitable resource distribution.
The ECOWAS Chairman listed tangible actions required to include enhancing cross-border cooperation in investigations and asset recovery, investing in innovative technologies to detect and prevent corrupt practices, promoting transparency in public procurement and resource management, and strengthening the independence and capacity of its national anti-corruption institutions.