President Bola Tinubu has praised the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for its role in promoting regional integration as it marks its 50th anniversary. Speaking in Accra, Ghana, during the launch of a series of events to commemorate the organization’s golden jubilee, Tinubu, represented by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, emphasized the significant achievements of ECOWAS.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu noted that ECOWAS has remained faithful to the vision set forth by its founding fathers, serving as a beacon of hope for over 400 million citizens in the region. He highlighted the establishment of one of Africa’s most vibrant free trade areas, which has facilitated intra-regional commerce and helped lift millions out of poverty over the past five decades.
However, Tinubu acknowledged the challenges faced by the community, including political instability, economic hardship, infrastructural deficits, and security threats. He urged member states to reimagine ECOWAS as a community of people, advocating for increased investment in education, innovation, and skills development to unlock Africa’s potential.
The President also called for enhanced economic cooperation and support for intra-regional trade, stressing the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a vehicle for meaningful transformation.
Ghana’s former President John Mahama echoed Tinubu’s sentiments, stating that citizens should perceive ECOWAS not as a bureaucratic entity but as a dynamic organization that understands their aspirations. He announced that Ghana would provide 1,000 scholarships to university students across the ECOWAS subregion to improve educational opportunities for young people.
During the launch, ECOWAS unveiled its official Golden Jubilee logo and theme, setting the stage for a year-long celebration of its achievements and future goals.
