The ECOWAS Parliament has concluded its second extraordinary session of the Sixth Legislature in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, with landmark resolutions on artificial intelligence (AI), budget adoption, and regional integration.
The four-day session brought together lawmakers, experts, and stakeholders who deliberated extensively on AI’s opportunities and risks, the Parliament’s budgetary priorities for 2026, and strategies to strengthen unity across the subregion. Closing the session, the President of the ECOWAS Parliament, H.E. Hadja Mémounatou Ibrahima, described the seminar on artificial intelligence as a milestone for governance in West Africa. She said it provided an opportunity to explore AI’s potential to modernize legislative processes, enhance accountability, and deepen citizen engagement, while also highlighting the ethical concerns of disinformation and misuse. Ibrahima explained that the reflections and recommendations from the discussions would form the foundation for a regulatory framework rooted in respect for human rights, inclusion, and democratic values.
Another key outcome of the session was the adoption of the 2026 budget, estimated at 19,636,030 Units of Account. According to the Parliament President, the budget represents more than an accounting document, describing it as the engine of the institution’s commitment to the people of West Africa. She noted that it will support the implementation of the AI seminar conclusions while ensuring transparent management of public funds and enabling the Parliament to carry out its priority missions.
Ibrahima expressed appreciation to Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his support of the Parliament’s activities and acknowledged the hospitality and logistical assistance provided by Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory. She also commended Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, and House Minority Leader Onobu Kingsley Chinda for their contributions to the success of the extraordinary session.
Looking ahead, she announced that the ECOWAS Parliament will mark its 25th anniversary in Abuja from November 14 to 16, 2025, with preparations already underway. She urged members to sustain efforts at promoting peace, unity, and integration across the subregion, emphasizing that their work must be guided by dialogue and the ideals of Vision 2050 to achieve an ECOWAS of the people, more united, stronger, peaceful, and prosperous.