ECOWAS Set To Develop Regional Resilience Strategy To Address Crises

ECOWAS Set To Develop Regional Resilience Strategy To Address Crises

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced its intention to formulate a regional resilience strategy aimed at effectively managing crises within the region through coordinated efforts and robust early warning systems….READ ALSO

The Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mr. Mustapha Ahmed, disclosed this during a consultation workshop for stakeholders from the region held in Abuja.

Organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Nigeria, the workshop brought together participants from ECOWAS Member States.

Ahmed highlighted that ECOWAS member states have faced a series of disasters, crises, and conflicts, posing significant threats to livelihoods, sustainable economic growth, and development.

He stressed the need to develop a regional resilience strategy with efficient coordination and effective early warning systems to guide anticipatory actions and support risk-informed decision-making.

According to Ahmed, Nigeria has faced challenges such as extreme weather events and conflicts over dwindling land and water resources, driven by climate change and demographic dynamics.

He noted that the predominant disaster risk profile of West Africa poses a significant threat to the region’s efforts to meet crucial global and continental initiatives, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030.

To address these challenges, Ahmed mentioned initiatives by ECOWAS such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) 2015–2030, the African Agenda 2060, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) treaty.

The NEMA boss highlighted the unsustainable nature of subsistence farming, shifting cultivation, and pastoralism, which have led to conflicts and a decline in rural productivity.

He also cited Nigeria’s experience of its worst recorded flood disaster in 2022, emphasizing the devastating impact on lives, property, and livelihoods.

In emphasizing the importance of the forum, Ahmed noted that Nigeria stands to benefit from the development of the West African Resilience Strategy in addressing multi-dimensional risks in the country.

Dr. Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, represented by Prof. Fatou Sarr, Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, ECOWAS, emphasized the need for transparent communication and collaboration to foster resilience and sustainable development in the region.

Ms. Elsie Attafuah, Resident Representative of UNDP Nigeria, expressed gratitude to the ECOWAS Commission and supporting countries for their engagement and co-financing of the resilience strategy.

She underscored the importance of addressing the needs of West Africa’s youthful population through innovative approaches, expressing confidence in the region’s resilience and determination to overcome challenges.

The workshop aims to refine analysis, identify synergies, and prioritize components of the strategy to build resilience effectively. It is expected to make a meaningful difference in the lives of millions across the region.