ECOWAS at a Crossroads: Security, Governance, and Regional Renewal in West Africa

West Africa is entering a decisive phase, and ECOWAS is attempting one of its most ambitious recalibrations since its formation. This strategic intelligence product by Global Eye Intelligence delivers a comprehensive assessment of ECOWAS as it navigates coups, democratic backsliding, terrorism, economic stress, and internal fragmentation—while still trying to preserve regional cohesion.

The analysis examines ECOWAS’ renewed focus on collective security and governance reform, highlighting efforts to operationalise the Standby Force, strengthen rapid-response mechanisms, and counter terrorism and unconstitutional changes of government. It unpacks why security is now being explicitly linked with governance, economic integration, education, and social resilience rather than treated as a standalone military problem. The report also evaluates the implications of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger stepping away from ECOWAS frameworks, and how this challenges enforcement credibility, consensus-building, and regional legitimacy.

Beyond risks, the product maps opportunity pathways: revitalising the single-currency agenda, leveraging public–private partnerships, strengthening intelligence cooperation, and restoring trust through institutional reform and transparency. Scenario assessments outline best-, most-likely-, and worst-case futures for West Africa’s stability and integration.

Why this matters now: regional organisations either adapt or hollow out. Those who understand ECOWAS’ renewal efforts early will anticipate whether West Africa stabilises—or fractures further.

Follow Global Eye Intelligence to stay ahead of Africa’s security and governance shifts before they harden into irreversible outcomes.