Nigeria has paid ₦85 billion and $54 million to clear its ECOWAS levy arrears for 2023 and part of 2024, marking the first full payment in 19 years.
The payment, announced by ECOWAS President, Omar Touray, at the 66th summit in Abuja, highlights Nigeria’s commitment to regional unity under President Tinubu’s leadership.
This payment, made on December 13, 2024, covers 100 per cent of the levies owed for 2023 and the first half of 2024, marking the first time in 19 years that Nigeria has cleared its full obligations.
Further, ECOWAS President praised Nigeria for the payment, describing it as a significant step forward for ECOWAS and a demonstration of Nigeria’s leadership under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
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Touray stated: “This payment underscores Nigeria’s commitment to the ECOWAS community and reflects trust in the Commission”.
Furthermore, President Tinubu, who chaired the summit as ECOWAS Chairman, emphasised the importance of unity within the organisation, particularly as the region faces multiple challenges.
These include conflicts in Sudan and the Middle East, violent extremism, and environmental crises.
He noted that, “the reality of these challenges underscores the need to work together”.
Additionally, Tinubu reiterated ECOWAS’s commitment to reintegrating Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, countries dealing with political instability.
As a result, his leadership, alongside Nigeria’s full payment, signals a renewed commitment to addressing the region’s pressing issues.
This, in turn, fosters greater cooperation within West Africa, aiming for a more unified and resilient future.
