Problems of ECOWAS

    Less efficient use of resources because member states produce similar goods and this affects trade.
    Different levels of Education among member states.
    Language differences hence communication within the union is not uniform- English, French and Portuguese are the official languages used by the various member states.
    Different levels of development making the richer members to benefit more inform of new industries and more jobs and incomes.
    Industrially weak members pay high prices for poor quality goods origination from other member states.
    Loss of Tax Revenue by member states because of the Free trade Area.
    Member states which are economically stronger want to dominate the union eg Nigeria.
    Some member states ignore the union economic objectives in their economic planning.
    Malicious foreign interference on Ecowas by developed countries since such unions usually challenge them and therefore imitate them.
    Member countries have different colonial backgrounds.  Former French colonies belong to the French community while the former British Common wealth membership in these organisations affects the operations of Ecowas on trade.
    Member countries are too many for an effective economic union.
    Member countries are far from each other and this affects trade between them.
    Existence of other intergovernmental organisations in the region.
    Failure by member states to provide the agreed financial contributions for running the union hampers. It’s economic development programs.
    Lack of a common currency.
    Ideological / personal differences among leaders eg religion
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National Movements and New States in Africa