By Omonu YG Nelson
The fifth legislature of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament began the process of winding down today in Freetown, Sierra Leone, with a seminar on illegal mining and its implications for the region.
The seminar, which marked the end of the tenure of Speaker Rt. Hon. Sidie Mohammed Tunis, brought together parliamentarians, government officials, experts, and civil society organizations to discuss the challenges and opportunities of the mining sector in West Africa.
“The events of the next few days are especially pivotal,” Tunis said in his opening remarks. “They mark the end of my tenure as Speaker and the Fifth Legislature. Before proceeding, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Bio and the people of Sierra Leone for affording me the opportunity to serve our country and the entire ECOWAS region. Your nomination and support enabled me to preside with dignity and honor over the destiny of the Community Parliament.”
The seminar focused on the issue of illegal mining, which is a major problem in many parts of West Africa. According to Tunis, nearly 80% of mining in Northwest Nigeria is being carried out illegally, which has increased conflict in the region since 2014.
“Illegal mining deprives Member States of much-needed revenue and creates instability through banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency,” Tunis said. “Therefore, the leadership of the Parliament dedicated this final seminar to examining illegal mining and its implications for the advancement of Member States.”
Despite the challenges of the past four years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, international conflicts, and regional instability, the ECOWAS Parliament has made significant progress. Tunis highlighted some of the achievements of the Fifth Legislature, including:
Strengthening relations with other Community institutions, playing a role in regional peace and security efforts; contributing to the fight against corruption and the promotion of human rights; making the ECOWAS Parliament more accessible and accountable to the people.
“I am pleased to report that we have made significant progress in all these areas,” Tunis said. “We have strengthened our relations with other Community institutions, played a role in regional peace and security efforts, and contributed to the fight against corruption and the promotion of human rights. We have also worked to make the ECOWAS Parliament more accessible and accountable to the people. We have launched a new website and social media platforms, held public hearings, and engaged with civil society organizations.”
Looking Ahead, Tunis say, “As the Fifth Legislature comes to an end, the ECOWAS Parliament is looking ahead to the future. The next legislature will face a number of challenges, including the threat of terrorism, and the need to address the economic and social impacts of climate change.
“However, I am confident that the ECOWAS Parliament will continue to play a vital role in promoting peace, security, and development in West Africa,” Tunis said. “We have a strong foundation to build on, and I am confident that the next legislature will take the Parliament to even greater heights.”
The seminar on illegal mining is a fitting conclusion to the Fifth Legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament. It is a reminder of the challenges facing the region, but it is also a source of hope for the future. With continued commitment and cooperation, the ECOWAS Parliament can help to build a brighter future for all West Africans.
@Summit Post News