Combatting Cybercrime in West Africa: Assessing the Role of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as a  Capable Guardian

Tahir Ijaiya

Tahir Ijaiya Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER)

Keywords: ECOWAS, Cybercrime, West Africa, Routine Activity Theory

Abstract

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The study examines the role of the Economic Community of West African
States (ECOWAS) as a capable guardian in combating cybercrime within
West Africa. To do this, the study adopts routine activity theory (RAT) as a
theoretical framework. RAT states that crime can only occur when likely
offenders and potential targets converge in place and time without a
capable guardian, underscoring the vital role of a capable guardian in
crime prevention. Relying on secondary data, the study reveals that the
ECOWAS has initiated various measures (legislation, workshops, regional
meetings, capacity-building programmes, and partnerships) in its bid to
play the role of a capable guardian. Furthermore, ECOWAS’s efforts to
combat cybercrime have been hampered by several challenges, including
poor commitment and inadequate funding for cybercrime and
cybersecurity initiatives. The study thus suggests that the ECOWAS ought
to invest in improving cybersecurity expertise and cyber law
harmonisation within the sub-region.

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