Golden Steps Toward Unity: ECOWAS Marks 50 Years with Historic Jubilee Walk in Cotonou.
By Raymond Enoch
In a powerful display of regional solidarity and shared vision, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) celebrated its 50th anniversary with a vibrant commemorative march—aptly named the “Jubilee Walk”—in the heart of Cotonou on Saturday, June 28, 2025.
Organised by the ECOWAS Representation in Benin, with the crucial backing of the Beninese Government, the West African Power Pool (WAPP), and the Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) Zone E, the event symbolized more than just five decades of regional cooperation. It was a resounding call for deeper integration, unity, and collective resilience across West Africa.
Setting off from the iconic Place de l’Amazone at dawn, the march attracted over 300 participants, drawing a diverse mix of attendees including dignitaries from state and diplomatic institutions, ECOWAS specialized agencies, youth groups, NGOs, students, and educators. The walk wound its way through Place Bio Guéra and returned triumphantly to its starting point around 10 a.m.
The high-level delegation at the helm of the march included Ambassador Amadou DIONGUE, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Benin, alongside representatives of the Beninese Minister for Sport, the Director of MMCC Zone E, and the Secretary General of WAPP. Their presence underscored the strategic importance of collaboration in security, energy, and regional development.
Adding gravitas to the event were Ambassador Francis OKE, former ECOWAS Permanent Representative to the African Union; the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations System; and the Resident Representatives of UEMOA and UNFPA. Their collective presence was a visual embodiment of multilateral cooperation and global support for West African progress.
The Jubilee Walk was punctuated by spirited chants and messages aligning with the golden jubilee theme: “Stronger Together for a Brighter Future.” It served not only as a physical journey through Cotonou but as a symbolic path forward—toward a more integrated, empowered, and peaceful West Africa.
“This march symbolises our shared commitment to an ECOWAS of peoples, united and in solidarity,” declared Ambassador DIONGUE. “In the face of current challenges, it is imperative that we unite our voices on the international stage to defend the interests of our region and accelerate the implementation of our integration policies, in order to create opportunities for our peoples.”
The event concluded with stirring words of appreciation and hope from Ambassador OKE and other key speakers, who emphasized that unity, public support, and cross-border collaboration remain the bedrock of the ECOWAS mission.
As the sun rose higher over Cotonou, the celebration ended in a warm, communal atmosphere—complete with refreshments and a symbolic family photo—marking not just a milestone, but a renewed commitment to the ECOWAS dream.
