Jane Salihu
Three lawmakers from Côte d’Ivoire have formally taken their leave from the ECOWAS Parliament following the end of their tenure at the regional assembly.
The departing legislators — Sako Mamadou, Aka Herve and Ake Yapo Germain — appeared before the chamber during the First Ordinary Session of 2026 in Abuja, drawing emotional tributes from colleagues after years of regional legislative engagement.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Sako Mamadou reflected on their experience at the Parliament, describing it as a period marked by robust debates, cooperation and a shared determination to strengthen democracy, peace and development across West Africa.
He noted that although the region still faces major challenges, the lawmakers were leaving with a sense of fulfillment, believing they had played their part in advancing the ideals of regional integration and parliamentary diplomacy.
“We are leaving with the feeling that we have modestly contributed,” he said, expressing confidence that the incoming representatives from Côte d’Ivoire would sustain the momentum and continue the work with dedication and passion.
Sako also thanked fellow parliamentarians for what he described as years of fraternity, mutual respect and constructive collaboration, saying the relationships built within the regional legislature would remain memorable and enduring.
The outgoing lawmakers further expressed confidence in the newly sworn-in Ivorian representatives, stating that they possess the capacity to deepen Côte d’Ivoire’s contribution to the vision and aspirations of ECOWAS.
