The ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government agreed to set up a Presidential Task Force on free movement in line with the vision 2020 of the sub-regional bloc.
The Authority stated this in a commuiqué presented by Ms Marjon Kamara, Chair, ECOWAS Council of Ministers, at the end of its 50th Ordinary Session in Abuja on Saturday.
The sub-regional leaders expressed concern about the continued obstacles to free movement of goods and persons.
They urged member states to “strictly implement all the provisions of the Protocol on Free Movement of Persons and Goods, Right of Residence and Establishment”.
The Authority directed the commission to intensify sensitisation for citizens on the provisions of the protocol and regularly organise joint sensitisation meetings between border security services and local populations.
The sub-regional leaders expressed concern about the economic situation of member states and called for measures to improve economies’ resilience.
The authority emphasised the need to develop road, railway, air and maritime infrastructure to facilitate free movement, boost sub-regional trade and enhance development.
In line with diversifying economies of the sub-region, the Authority agreed to foster cooperation between the State of Israel in the areas of agriculture and rural development.
It, therefore, approved the participation of the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, as an Observer in the next Summit, to enable him share Israel’s experience in the agricultural sector.
It further reiterated the call on the international community to support the implementation of President Mohammed Buhari’s Plan for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of north-east Nigeria.
The authourity also set aside Jan. 16 as ECOWAS Human Rights Day to promote the inclusion of women and youths in governance. (NAN)
ECOWAS to set up presidential task force on free movement
