The Role of Nigeria in the Development of International Organisation in Africa a Case of Ecowas

ABSTRACT This study examines Nigeria's pivotal role in establishing and developing the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), highlighting the country's contributions since the organization's formation in 1975. As Africa's largest economy and most populous nation, Nigeria has been instrumental in shaping ECOWAS's institutional framework, regional integration policies, and peacekeeping initiatives across West Africa. The research analyzes Nigeria's diplomatic, economic, and military contributions, including its leadership in conflict resolution in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Mali. Through financial commitments, hosting of key institutions,and policy leadership, Nigeria has demonstrated its position as a regionalpowerhouse in advancing ECOWAS's objectives of economic integration, free movement of persons, and regional security. The study also examines challenges and limitations in Nigeria's regional leadership role, offering insights into the future of West African cooperation and integration.