The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has been urged to intensify efforts to promote and protect the rights of children across the region.
The call was made by participants at a regional review and strategic planning meeting on the implementation of the ECOWAS Policy on Children, which concluded on 25 September 2026 in Abuja, Nigeria.
Participants called on the ECOWAS Commission to strengthen its role in resource mobilisation, capacity building and regional coordination to support the effective implementation of the policy across Member States.
They also urged development partners to sustain their support for ECOWAS Member States, particularly in strengthening national capacities and implementing programmes aimed at ensuring the long-term promotion and protection of children’s rights in West Africa.
Member States urged to improve data collection
The meeting further called on ECOWAS Member States to establish comprehensive and sustainable systems for collecting data on children.
Participants said reliable and up-to-date data was essential for governments to understand the challenges facing children, develop evidence-based policies and effectively monitor progress in protecting their rights.
Member States were also encouraged to designate focal points for children’s rights within key ministries to improve coordination and ensure that children’s issues receive sustained attention across government.
Greater community engagement needed
The participants also recommended stronger public awareness campaigns on children’s rights, with particular emphasis on community engagement.
They said communities have an important role to play in creating safe and supportive environments for children and ensuring that their rights are understood and respected.
The recommendations are expected to contribute to stronger regional coordination and national action towards the implementation of the ECOWAS Policy on Children, while reinforcing the shared responsibility of governments, regional institutions, development partners and communities to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of children across West Africa.
