NIGERIA: Tinubu Commends ECOWAS’ Legacy At 50th Anniversary Launch In Accra

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has lauded the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for five decades of unity, resilience, and progress as the regional bloc marked its Golden Jubilee in Accra, Ghana.

The president made this known in a statement shared on his official X handle.

Speaking at the official launch of the 50th anniversary celebrations, President Tinubu hailed ECOWAS as he described the body as a “beacon of hope” and a “pillar of integration” that has weathered the storms of political instability, economic hardship, and insecurity to emerge as one of Africa’s most successful regional economic communities.

He said: “With a profound sense of fraternity and solidarity, I stand before you today in the beautiful city of Accra to celebrate the official launch of ECOWAS’ Golden Jubilee. We celebrate five decades of progress, unity, and resilience and rekindle the flame of solidarity that has guided our region through triumphs and trials.”

The President extended warm congratulations to Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, commending his leadership, commitment to regional integration, and promotion of democratic governance.

According to the statement, Tinubu described Ghana as a “beacon of democratic governance, economic progress, and regional solidarity” under Mahama’s stewardship.

He also acknowledged the efforts of the ECOWAS Commission staff, praising their professionalism and dedication in making the celebration a success.

Founded on May 28, 1975, ECOWAS was envisioned as a platform for regional economic integration, cooperation, and shared prosperity.

“From the ashes of colonialism and the turbulence o post-independence struggles, they forged ECOWAS—a beacon of hope for our people,” Tinubu recalled, referencing the original Treaty of Lagos.

Despite the challenges of the past five decades, the President reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to a united and prosperous region.

“We shall not relent in our commitment to a united, peaceful, purposeful, and prosperous West Africa,” he declared.

He further celebrated ECOWAS’ economic achievements, particularly the establishment of one of Africa’s most vibrant free trade areas, which, according to him, has boosted intra-regional commerce and lifted millions from poverty.