ECOWAS Unveils Social Protection Framework and Operational Plan (2024–2028)

By: Chinedu Echianu
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched a Social Protection Framework and Operational Plan (2024–2028) aimed at expanding coverage and tackling poverty across the sub-region.

Speaking at the launch, General Secretary of the Organisation of Trade Unions of West Africa (OTUWA), John Odah, said that with the exception of Cape Verde, West African countries were performing poorly in social protection coverage. He stressed the need for governments to prioritise policies that directly benefit vulnerable groups.
Also speaking at the event, Country Director of the International Labour Organization, Vanessa Phala, highlighted the importance of social protection, particularly in health care, describing it as “critical for the well-being and productivity of citizens.”

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Minister of state for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Yusufu Tanko-Sununu, a director in the ministry, Valentine Ezulu underscored that peace, prosperity and inclusive development in West Africa can only be achieved through sustainable social protection coverage.
Ezulu outlined six pathways for poverty reduction, including: Grants for vulnerable groups, the Mpower programme, expanded farming opportunities for internally displaced persons (IDPs), strengthening the National Commission for Refugees, support through the Senior Citizens Centre, and other targeted interventions.

He further disclosed that 19.7 million households are currently captured in Nigeria’s national social safety net register, which is being revised to improve accuracy and reach.
The new ECOWAS framework, spanning 2024–2028, is expected to provide member states with policy direction and operational tools to reduce poverty, improve resilience, and build inclusive social systems across the region.