The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is saddled with many problems, one of which is

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for a problem (a challenge) facing ECOWAS. So we must pick the option that is a difficulty, not an achievement or objective.

Step 2: Recall the concept ECOWAS was founded in 1975 (Treaty of Lagos) to promote economic integration, free movement of people, trade, and cooperation among West African states. Its aims and activities include:

• Facilitating free movement of persons, goods, and services
• Promoting inter-state trade
• Encouraging cultural and sports exchange

Its problems include:

• Colonial heritage (language barriers between Anglophone, Francophone, and Lusophone members, differing currencies and administrative systems, and continued loyalty to former colonial powers)
• Political instability and coups
• Multiple memberships in other organizations
• Poor transport and communication links
• Unequal economic development and fear of Nigerian dominance
• Irregular payment of dues

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Colonial heritage: This is a problem. The division of West Africa into English-, French-, and Portuguese-speaking blocs hinders integration. ✔
• B. Facilitation of movement of people: This is an objective or achievement, not a problem.
• C. Inter-state trading: This is an aim of ECOWAS, not a problem.
• D. Sports and cultural exchange: This is a benefit or activity, not a problem.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is A. colonial heritage.

Tip: In "problems of an organization" questions, eliminate options that sound like aims or achievements (movement of people, trade, cultural exchange). The remaining option that describes an obstacle (such as colonial legacy, language barriers, or political instability) is usually the answer.