Sub-Regional Integration and the Politics of Economic Emancipation in West Africa

A sub-regional integration is an association or organization made up of different countries with an objective of improving the welfare of their member nations. Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a sub-regional organization in West Africa set- apart to improve the economic condition and the general well-being of the member state. Recently, political instability, inter and intra-state crisis, electoral violence and political conflicts became a big challenge to the region and no state or sub-region can achieve any' meaningful economic development without a peaceful environment, The paper discussed ECOWAS 'aim and objectives and its conflict management strategies. It also highlighted some strategies to achieve their goal and challenges facing them. The paper recommends speedy intervention before any crisis reaches a climax of war and destruction of lives and property in any state in the sub-region.

Keywords: ECOWAS. Strategies for Conflict Management, Prospects, Challenges.