The essence of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) is to foster economic and political cooperation among its member states in West Africa. This means that the organization aims to promote trade and investment among its members, as well as to enhance regional integration and development. Additionally, ECOWAS works to promote peace and security in the region through conflict prevention and resolution mechanisms. In summary, ECOWAS seeks to bring West African countries closer together in order to improve the well-being and prosperity of their people.