ECOWAS introduces a 2024–2028 Social Protection plan, urging West African governments to expand safety nets and prioritise vulnerable citizens.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has raised concern over the region’s weak social protection systems, warning that millions of vulnerable citizens remain excluded from critical safety nets.
The alarm came as the regional body unveiled its Social Protection Framework and Operational Plan (2024–2028), designed to guide member states in reducing poverty, improving resilience, and building inclusive social systems.
General Secretary of the Organisation of Trade Unions of West Africa (OTUWA), John Odah, said only Cape Verde has made notable progress, while the rest of the region continues to lag behind.
“West African countries are performing poorly in social protection coverage. Governments must prioritise policies that directly benefit vulnerable groups,” Odah stressed.
Also speaking, Country Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Vanessa Phala, described social protection—especially health care—as essential to productivity and long-term growth.
“It is not just a safety net; it is critical for the well-being and productivity of citizens,” she noted.
Representing Nigeria’s Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Valentine Ezulu emphasized that sustainable peace and prosperity in West Africa depend on inclusive social protection. He outlined six intervention pathways, including grants for vulnerable groups, farming opportunities for displaced persons, support for refugees, and programmes for senior citizens.
Ezulu further disclosed that 19.7 million Nigerian households are already listed in the national social safety net register, which is being updated to improve reach and accuracy.
The new ECOWAS framework, which will run until 2028, is expected to serve as a roadmap for tackling poverty and inequality across the sub-region, amid mounting economic pressures and social vulnerabilities.
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