ECOWAS Joins EU Talks on Mediation Amid West African Security Challenges

October 24, 2026 | By Semahegn Nigatu

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has joined European and international partners at the eighth European Union Community of Practice meeting on peace mediation, as regional organisations seek to strengthen cooperation in responding to political instability and security challenges.

The ECOWAS delegation is led by Babatunde Afolabi, director of political affairs, and includes Onyinye Onwuka, head of the Mediation and Coordination of Regional Political Affairs Division, according to information provided by the regional bloc.

The meeting brings together mediation practitioners, regional and international organisations, civil society representatives and other peacebuilding actors to exchange experience and strengthen cooperation.

During a plenary session titled “Advancing Peace Mediation in an Unpredictable World”, Afolabi contributed to discussions on challenges facing mediation, the role of regional organisations and cooperation between institutional actors and civil society in preventing and resolving conflicts.

The discussions come amid security and political challenges in West Africa, including violent extremism, terrorism, political transitions following unconstitutional changes of government and interstate disputes. Geopolitical competition has also added to the challenges facing regional cooperation and efforts to sustain dialogue.

ECOWAS’ participation provides an opportunity to share its regional experience and strengthen engagement with European and other international partners on mediation approaches.

The organisation said its participation reaffirmed its commitment to working with regional and international institutions, civil society and other stakeholders to advance inclusive and sustainable peace mediation in West Africa.

Source: FSX Business News