ECOWAS Vice President and Nigeria’s Foreign Minister Strategize for Impactful 50th Anniversary Celebrations.
By Raymond Enoch
In a bid to streamline preparations for the forthcoming 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Vice President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Mrs. Damtien L. TCHINTCHIBIDJA ,has held a high level meeting with Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Ambassador Yusuf Maitama TUGGAR, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja Nigeria.
The meeting focused on key plans and activities for the historic celebration, which will take place across all ECOWAS Member States, with a significant focal point in Lagos, Nigeria, scheduled for May 28, 2025. In her address, Mrs. TCHINTCHIBIDJA emphasized the importance of the upcoming anniversary not only as a moment to celebrate the remarkable achievements of ECOWAS over the past five decades but also as an opportunity to reflect on areas for growth and improvement in the organization’s mission.
“The 50th anniversary is more than just a celebration,” said Mrs. TCHINTCHIBIDJA. “It’s a moment for introspection and strengthening our resolve to better serve the citizens of West Africa. Nigeria, as a cornerstone member of ECOWAS, must play an instrumental role in ensuring that this milestone is both reflective and forward-thinking.”
The Vice President urged for active participation from Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in shaping the anniversary events, particularly in the technical and planning committees responsible for the coordination of the celebration.
Ambassador TUGGAR, in his response, reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering support for ECOWAS and its commitment to ensuring that the 50th anniversary celebrations are inclusive, impactful, and youth-centered. “Nigeria is fully invested in making this anniversary memorable, not just for ECOWAS but for all of West Africa,” he said, further emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring the success of the event.
The upcoming anniversary marks a momentous occasion for ECOWAS, celebrating 50 years of regional integration, peace-building, and economic collaboration. The planned events are expected to showcase the strength of ECOWAS in uniting the diverse nations of West Africa, while also focusing on key issues such as youth engagement, sustainable development, and regional stability.
As the countdown to May 28, 2025, begins, the joint efforts of the ECOWAS Commission and Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry will play a pivotal role in delivering an anniversary celebration that not only honors the past but also sets the stage for the future of the West African Community.
