Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Hadja Memounatou Ibrahima, has called for dialogue to address the resentment expressed by some member states. 
 
In her opening statement at the 2025 Parliamentary Seminar, Ibrahima encouraged dialogue and hoped for the full reintegration of ECOWAS member states that have expressed resentment, particularly Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
 
Ibrahima acknowledged the complex regional context, marked by multidimensional challenges such as insecurity, terrorism, climate disruption, and economic fragility.
 
She emphasised the need for accelerated integration to address the challenges and promote regional development.
 
The speaker welcomed the desire expressed by all parties to maintain the fluidity of people and goods in the regional space for harmonious development. 

The seven-day seminar, which brings together lawmakers, experts, and stakeholders, aims to explore the potential of AI in enhancing parliamentary efficiency and driving development in the region.
 
In his goodwill message, the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, represented by the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Prof Ngozi Odu, noted that the seminar’s theme was particularly relevant in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. 
 
In his welcome address, the Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament and Leader of the Nigerian Delegation, Senator Barau Jibrin, reaffirmed Nigeria’s unshakable commitment to the work of the ECOWAS Parliament and assured the body of continuous support in fulfilling its mandate.