Germany has announced a €49 million (₦82 billion) support package to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), aimed at strengthening peace, security, economic growth, and healthcare systems across the subregion. The agreement was sealed during a high-level meeting between German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Touray in Abuja.
The funding will target programs addressing cross-border security threats, youth unemployment, and health emergencies. Part of the allocation will go toward supporting ECOWAS’s Early Warning and Response Network (ECOWARN) and peacekeeping operations in countries facing political instability, such as Niger and Burkina Faso.
Minister Baerbock stressed Germany’s commitment to regional stability as a foundation for sustainable development. “Peace and prosperity in West Africa are essential not only for the continent but for the world. Germany stands with ECOWAS in promoting democracy, resilience, and human dignity,” she stated.
Dr. Touray praised the partnership, noting that Germany remains one of ECOWAS’s most consistent development allies. He affirmed that the funding would bolster institutional capacity to manage conflicts, improve border management, and enhance regional trade facilitation.
Observers believe the renewed German commitment signals Europe’s strategic pivot toward Africa amid growing global competition for influence. The agreement is also expected to reinforce ECOWAS’s diplomatic efforts in mediating political crises and promoting economic integration.