The Malam Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Studies, Mambayya House, has convened its 24th Annual Symposium to mark the 43rd memorial anniversary of late nationalist Aminu Kano.
The Symposium which held on Friday at the Sa’adu Zungur Auditorium in Mambayya House brought together policymakers, academics, and security with a focus on regional security and economic cooperation in West Africa.
With the theme, “ECOWAS and Regional Peace in West Africa: The Security and Economic Implications for Nigeria,” this framed discussions around growing insecurity and economic challenges.
Chairman of the occasion, Tukur Buratai, paid tribute to Aminu Kano, describing him as a symbol of social justice, democratic ideals, and regional unity.
He noted that West Africa is currently at a crossroads, citing the resurgence of military coups in countries such as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, alongside rising threats of terrorism, piracy, and cross-border crimes.
According to him, insecurity in neighbouring countries directly impacts Nigeria.
He called for stronger regional collaboration, noting that security challenges and economic integration require collective action rather than isolated national responses.
“Today, West Africa stands at a crossroads, with rising insecurity, military coups, and economic challenges threatening regional stability.
“Terrorism, piracy, and smuggling transcend borders, making it clear that our response must also be collective and regional.
“Nigeria cannot secure itself in isolation, the stability of our neighbours directly affects our own security and prosperity.
“ECOWAS must strengthen dialogue, cooperation, and commitment to ensure peace, economic growth, and democratic continuity across the subregion,” he said.
In his welcome address, the vice chancellor of Bayero University Kano, Professor Haruna Musa, represented by Prof. Aliyu, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Management Services, said the symposium continues a long-standing tradition of bridging academic discourse with public policy.
He described Aminu Kano as a towering figure whose ideals of equity, justice, and people-centred governance remain relevant in addressing contemporary challenges.
“Since 2001, this symposium has remained a vital platform where scholars, policymakers, and thought leaders engage on issues shaping Nigeria’s democratic and development journey.
“We gather not only to remember Malam Aminu Kano, but to reflect on his enduring legacy of social justice, equity, and the empowerment of the common people.
“The theme of this year’s symposium is timely, as West Africa faces complex security and economic challenges that demand collective reflection and practical solutions,” the DVC stated.
Delivering the keynote, Professor Nazifi Abdullahi Darma emphasised that peace and economic development are deeply interconnected.
He noted that instability undermines trade, investment, and infrastructure development, while poverty and lack of economic opportunities can fuel insecurity.
He stated that ECOWAS, with a population of over 446 million people, represents a significant economic bloc, stressing that Nigeria’s leadership role is crucial in driving regional integration, strengthening peace mechanisms, and fostering sustainable development across West Africa.
He added: “Regional peace and security are not abstract ideas; they directly affect the daily lives of millions across West Africa, including communities here in Nigeria.
“There is a strong link between economic development and security, as poverty and deprivation often create fertile ground for instability and conflict.
“Strengthening ECOWAS mechanisms is essential, because sustainable peace is the foundation upon which economic growth, trade, and regional integration can thrive.”
