Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has called for stronger regional cooperation among ECOWAS member states to address the growing impact of climate change, environmental degradation, population displacement and insecurity across West Africa.
The Vice President made the call in Accra when she joined members of the ECOWAS Parliament for the joint opening of the Second Extraordinary Session and Second Parliamentary Seminar of 2026.
The parliamentary programme is being held under the theme, “Climate Change as a Driver of Environmental Degradation, Population Displacement and Growing Insecurity in the ECOWAS Region.”
Climate Change Threatens Livelihoods Across West Africa
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang noted that the effects of climate change in West Africa are becoming increasingly visible through disrupted livelihoods, forced migration, environmental challenges and rising insecurity.
She stressed that these challenges extend beyond national borders and therefore require coordinated regional solutions from ECOWAS countries.
According to her, greater investment in local communities is necessary to strengthen their ability to withstand climate-related pressures and recover from economic and environmental shocks.
She also highlighted the importance of protecting livelihoods and improving food security in West Africa, describing both as essential not only to economic development but also to maintaining peace and stability across the region.
ECOWAS Regional Integration
The Vice President further emphasised the important role of the ECOWAS Parliament in ensuring that regional integration delivers practical benefits to citizens.
She said stronger integration should make it easier for people across West Africa to move, trade, work and access economic opportunities within the region.
The Vice President noted that Ghana’s commitment to regional integration is deeply connected to the country’s history and its long-standing Pan-African vision.
She referenced the legacy of Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, as well as the contributions of successive Ghanaian governments, in advancing cooperation and unity across Africa.
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to promoting a more united, integrated and prosperous West Africa, while working with ECOWAS partners to address climate change, food security, displacement and regional security challenges.
The discussions at the ECOWAS Parliament are expected to contribute to broader efforts aimed at strengthening regional cooperation, sustainable development, climate resilience and peace in West Africa.
Source: newsthemegh.com