Ibadan Journal of the Social Sciences
Volume 15, No. 2, 2017
DOI: 10.36108/ijss/7102.51.0270
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOW AS): Transcending Regional Economic Integration
A. Irene Pogoson1 and Maduabuchi Ogidi2
1Department of Political Science. University of Ibadan, Nigeria
2School of General Studies. Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, Nigeria
Abstract
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has over the years evolved from an organization for economic integration and development into all organization for peace, democracy and economic integration as result of the dynamics of the political environment of the West African sub-region. ECOWAS mandate appears to have expanded from that of pursuing a strict economic agenda to a robust political mission. This paper examines the extent to which this has been achieved. This intervention probes the extent to which current modifications to the ECOWAS security protocol enhance its operations in comparison with previous security challenges in the sub-region, The paper postulates that political will is essential to effective cooperation and integration. It poses the central question of the extent to which political leaders in West Africa have been committed to the achievement of the objectives of ECOWAS