The Economic Community of West African States and its Members: A Success Story of Integrated Development

Abstract

The effects of regional economic integration on trade and development of the Member States of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) was chosen as topic for this article to examine how much impact regional integration has made among Member States. The history of regional economic integration is discussed to highlight the developmental trajectory of different regional groups. This paper has a critical look at the formation of regional economic blocs around the globe, with a view to show how they operate for the purpose of fostering regional cooperation among members. The history of the formation of the Economic Community of West African States and the challenges which have constrained its transformation into a complete regional economic union is also discussed.