The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced its intention to convene a crucial summit, titled "The Future of the Community," aimed at devising strategies for its continued operation and integration in the absence of three former member states: Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic. These three francophone nations officially withdrew from the regional bloc and subsequently formed their own Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The strained relations between the three countries and other ECOWAS members intensified following the regional body's firm rejection of undemocratic changes in government within what are now the AES states.

In response to these significant developments and ongoing challenges, the Committee on Administration and Finance (CAF) of the ECOWAS Commission has initiated a three-day mid-term evaluation meeting in Abuja. This meeting is set to thoroughly assess the implementation of the Community's programs and activities across the sub-region. Additionally, the committee will critically examine the difficult financial situation currently facing ECOWAS and review the state of recruitment processes within its various institutions.

During the opening of the 37th ordinary meeting of the CAF, Madam Damtien Tchintchibidja, the Vice President of the ECOWAS Commission, delivered a strong appeal for swift and comprehensive reforms. She emphasized that these reforms are essential to adapt to the new realities imposed by the withdrawal of the three member states. Tchintchibidja articulated that the current meeting is positioned within a dual context: the commemoration of ECOWAS's fiftieth anniversary and the official departure of the three nations. She highlighted that a key lesson from both events is the imperative need to accelerate institutional, organizational, political, and security reforms.

Tchintchibidja further stated her pleasure in announcing the forthcoming "Future of the Community" Summit, which aligns with decisions made by the Heads of State and Government. She assured that prior consultations, including with young people and women, would be organized to ensure all future needs of the Community are considered. Acknowledging the profound challenges, she noted that ECOWAS is currently navigating an "existential crisis" and finds itself "at a crossroads." This situation, she stressed, demands a robust capacity to overcome obstacles to integration and to proactively envision the future, reinforcing the paramount importance of unity, solidarity, and fraternity for collective development, peace, and stability. She reiterated that the strength of ECOWAS lies in moving forward together for a priceless journey towards development, peace, and stability.

The Golden Jubilee of ECOWAS has served as a period for collective reflection, introspection, and assessment of its achievements, strengths, and challenges, simultaneously providing an opportunity to look ahead. The Vice President reminded all stakeholders that ECOWAS embodies the collective commitment, solidarity, fraternity, and shared desire of its citizens to build a more prosperous and forward-looking region, echoing the Golden Jubilee's theme: 'Stronger together for a better future.'

Adding to the discourse, Ambassador Olawale Awe, Chairman of the ECOWAS Committee on Administration and Finance, urged ECOWAS to expedite the process of filling the gaps created by the departure of the three states. He also stressed the critical need for remaining member states to fulfill their financial obligations by paying levies and dues to ensure the effective running of the commission's programs and activities and to address the vacuum left by the exiting members.

In a related concern, Prof. Nazifi A. Darma, Commissioner for Internal Service, raised fears regarding a new world order, specifically mentioning the withdrawal of USAID assistance across most West African countries. He cautioned that this trend might be reciprocated by other development partners, potentially exacerbating the Community's financial woes and development efforts.