ABUJA, Nigeria – The Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Hadja Mémounatou Ibrahima, has called for urgent action to protect the rights of women and girls across West Africa, marking International Women’s Day 2026.
In a statement released on Monday, the Speaker aligned the regional body with the United Nations’ global theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” while emphasizing the regional campaign slogan: “Give to Gain.”
A Call for Justice and Representation
Speaker Ibrahima highlighted the indispensable role women play in the stability of the regional bloc, noting their contributions to governance, economic development, and peacebuilding.
However, she stressed that acknowledgment alone is not enough. The Speaker called for:
- Meaningful action to bridge the gender gap in decision-making.
- Equal opportunities in education and the workplace.
- Robust policy initiatives to ensure the safety and legal protection of girls.
“When women are empowered with equal opportunities… societies become stronger and more inclusive,” the Speaker noted.
Investing in the Future
The “Give to Gain” campaign featured heavily in the address, framing women’s empowerment not just as a social necessity, but as a primary economic driver for West Africa. The ECOWAS Parliament reaffirmed its dedication to promoting inclusive governance across Member States, aiming to build a region where every woman can realize her “full potential.”The message comes at a critical time for the region, as ECOWAS continues to navigate complex security and political transitions where women’s leadership in community mediation has proven vital.
Add Comment