Sixth ECOWAS Parliament Opens in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Port Harcourt, Nigeria | September 23, 2025

The Second Extraordinary Session of the Sixth ECOWAS Parliament officially opened today in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. The high-level gathering marks a significant milestone in the regional legislative agenda, drawing delegates and parliamentarians from across the 15-member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Held under the theme “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Parliamentary Efficiency, Ethical Governance, and Development in the ECOWAS Region,” the session reflects a forward-looking approach by the regional bloc in embracing digital innovation to drive legislative effectiveness and governance.
The six-day session will feature a series of plenary discussions, expert panels, and deliberations focused on how artificial intelligence (AI) can be ethically and strategically applied to enhance parliamentary functions, promote transparency, and accelerate socio-economic development within the region.
In his welcome remarks, Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Sidie Mohamed Tunis, emphasized the importance of technology in shaping the future of governance. “This session is an opportunity to lay the foundation for a digital transformation agenda that aligns with the aspirations of the ECOWAS Vision 2050,” he stated.
The event is being hosted in partnership with the Government of Rivers State, further underscoring Nigeria’s central role in advancing regional integration and cooperation within West Africa.
As the session progresses, participants are expected to adopt key resolutions and recommendations that will guide the ECOWAS Parliament’s efforts in leveraging AI for legislative innovation, while ensuring inclusivity, accountability, and regional development.
The session will run until Sunday, September 28, 2025.