The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reaffirmed its commitment to introducing the long-awaited ECO single currency in 2027, describing the initiative as a major milestone toward deeper regional economic integration, enhanced trade, and sustainable growth across West Africa.
The decision was announced at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government held in Lungi, Sierra Leone, where regional leaders also reviewed the bloc’s economic outlook and security challenges.
ECOWAS said the ECO would initially be adopted by member states that meet the required economic convergence criteria, while countries yet to qualify would receive the necessary support to join the monetary union at a later stage.
Leaders also endorsed measures to strengthen regional security, including plans to operationalise the ECOWAS Counterterrorism Brigade by July 2027, while reaffirming their commitment to free movement, food security, and stronger economic cooperation across the region.
