ECOWAS has launched the second phase of its EU-funded project to enhance free movement and migration governance for economic growth in West Africa

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has inaugurated the second phase of the European Union (EU)-funded project, *Support to Free Movement of Persons and Migration in West Africa (FMM II)*.

The project aims to strengthen the free movement of people, goods, and services across the West African sub-region, promoting economic growth and regional integration.

The launch event, held on Thursday, was organised by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in partnership with the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), and the ECOWAS Commission.

Speaking at the inauguration, ECOWAS Vice-President Mrs. Damtien Tchintchibidja reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to free movement and economic development.

She noted that FMM II will further improve migration governance, border management, and labour mobility within the region.

“During the first phase of the project, we made significant progress in enhancing migration governance, strengthening border management, and facilitating the implementation of the free movement protocol,” Tchintchibidja stated.

She emphasised that the second phase of the project will build on these achievements by improving migration frameworks, strengthening coordination mechanisms, and adopting data-driven policies to enhance mobility and regional security.

Mr. Massimo De Luka, Head of Cooperation for the European Union (EU), highlighted the EU’s commitment to supporting ECOWAS in implementing free movement protocols.

He noted that the five-year project would help maximise the development potential of migration while ensuring orderly and safe cross-border movement.

“The foundation for cooperation in migration governance has been set, and this second phase will deepen our commitment to regional integration,” De Luka stated.

Meanwhile, ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Massandjé Toure-Litse, praised the progress made during the first phase and reaffirmed ECOWAS’s dedication to regional integration, sustainable development, and migration governance.