THE Federal Government has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening democratic governance and sustaining stability across the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), saying the country will continue to play a leading role in the sub-region.

The position was made known on Thursday at the Voice of Nigeria (VON) Forum 2026 held in Abuja, themed “51 Years of Nigeria’s Role in Deepening Democratic Stability in ECOWAS.”

The event brought together government officials, lawmakers, diplomats and policy experts to review Nigeria’s contributions to regional integration and democratic development over the past five decades.

Speaking at the forum, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said Nigeria’s involvement in peacekeeping, mediation and support for democratic transitions across West Africa reflects a long-standing national policy.

He said Nigeria’s progress is closely linked to the stability of neighbouring countries, noting that peace in the region creates opportunities for investment and shared prosperity.

“Nigeria has remained at the forefront of promoting peace, democratic governance and regional integration across West Africa,” the minister said.

He noted that while the region continues to face security threats and political uncertainties, the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains focused on strengthening institutions and promoting dialogue among member states.

Idris also cautioned against narratives that portray Nigeria as unstable, insisting that such claims do not reflect the current realities.

“We acknowledge the challenges, but Nigeria is stable, functional and on the path of recovery and growth,” he said.

The minister pointed to ongoing security operations and reforms, including increased funding for defence and coordinated intelligence efforts, which he said have led to the rescue of kidnapped victims and the disruption of criminal networks.

On the economy, he cited improving indicators such as moderating inflation, rising foreign investment and stronger external reserves as signs of gradual recovery.

Also speaking, Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, said Nigeria has continued to invest political and diplomatic resources in strengthening ECOWAS institutions since the bloc’s formation in 1975.

He described the organisation as a product of foresight and cooperation, built to promote collective security and economic integration among West African countries.

According to him, democratic governance remains central to regional stability, with legislative institutions playing a key role in ensuring accountability and the rule of law.

He added that Nigeria’s National Assembly will continue to support initiatives that promote regional cooperation and democratic consolidation.

In his remarks, the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Baba Ndace, said the forum was convened at a time when democratic institutions in parts of West Africa are under pressure.

He said Nigeria has remained a stabilising force in the region through peace missions, diplomatic engagement and support for constitutional order in member states.

Ndace noted that the forum provides an opportunity for stakeholders to examine emerging challenges, including unconstitutional changes of government and declining public trust, while identifying practical steps to strengthen democratic systems.

He also stressed the role of the media in shaping public perception and promoting responsible discourse, especially in an era of widespread misinformation.

The renewed commitment comes against the backdrop of shifting political dynamics within the region, particularly in the Sahel, where Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, all led by military governments have formally withdrawn from ECOWAS after prolonged disagreements with the bloc.

The three countries announced their exit in 2024 and completed the process in January 2025, marking a major turning point for regional integration.

The development, which led to the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States, has raised fresh concerns about unity, security cooperation and the future of democratic governance in West Africa, necessitating calls at the forum for stronger collaboration and renewed commitment to ECOWAS ideals.