ECOWAS at 50: ATRIWA seeks traditional rulers’ inclusion in regional integration efforts

The Association of Traditional Rulers for Integration in West Africa (ATRIWA) has congratulated the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on its 50th anniversary, describing the bloc as a symbol of unity and development in the region.

Félix Eke-Metoho, the coordinator of ATRIWA and traditional ruler of the Togbui Deguini Adela Akpaxlin Clan in Togo, sent the message of goodwill during the golden jubilee celebrations of ECOWAS in Accra, Ghana.

He commended the ECOWAS leadership, institutions, and citizens for sustaining the ideals of integration since the Lagos treaty was signed in 1975.

Dèdè Eke-Metoho said ECOWAS had made “significant strides” in enabling the free movement of people and goods across borders, which he noted had contributed to economic growth and improved livelihoods.

He also praised the regional bloc for its role in peacekeeping, especially through the establishment of a standby force that responds swiftly to threats of conflict and insecurity.

“The ECOWAS Court of Justice has equally shown leadership by protecting human rights and giving justice to the oppressed,” he added.

The traditional ruler also expressed support for the ECOWAS Vision 2050—which aims to shift the bloc from an “ECOWAS of states” to an “ECOWAS of people”.

He urged ECOWAS to “actively consult traditional leaders” in shaping policies and securing grassroots ownership of regional goals and pledged that ATRIWA would mobilise citizens to participate in development efforts and spread awareness at the community level.

He also said the group called for the removal of colonial-era border obstacles that still hinder integration, describing them as “artificial boundaries” that should become “bridges of unity”.

On the withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS, he said ATRIWA supported continued dialogue and reintegration efforts.

“We encourage the bloc to intensify reconciliation so that peace, stability, and development remain collective goals,” Eke-Metoho said.

ATRIWA also commended the ECOWAS parliament for seeking greater powers and reforms to become a directly elected body representing the people of the region.