By Hannah Dadzie
President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, has declared that despite the many challenges facing West Africa, there is every reason to celebrate the achievements of the sub-regional body as it marks its 50th anniversary.
Speaking at the official launch of the anniversary in Accra, Dr. Touray said the Jubilee is not only a time to celebrate but also to reflect and recalibrate.
“In the current context, many would question if there’s anything to celebrate. Our answer is a resounding yes. ECOWAS remains the most integrated regional community on the African continent.” Dr Touray said
He highlighted major achievements such as the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol, which guarantees citizens visa-free travel, the right of residence, and the right to establish businesses across member states. According to him, this protocol has made cross-border trade and travel more accessible for ordinary people and entrepreneurs alike.
Dr. Touray also praised the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme, under which more than 15,000 companies and 50,000 products benefit from preferential treatment. He further pointed to the SIGMAT system, now operational in seven countries, which links customs offices to speed up trade across the region.
On energy and infrastructure, he announced that the Regional Electricity Regulatory Authority has been established in Ghana as part of broader plans to boost regional power access and integration.
Touching on security, Dr. Touray noted that West Africa recorded zero incidents of piracy in 2024, a significant win for maritime security. He urged member states to continue investing in peace and stability to attract investors and protect regional gains.
The ECOWAS President expressed gratitude to government and the people of Ghana and particularly President John Dramani Mahama for hosting the historic launch, describing it as a significant milestone for the regional bloc.
“Dr. Kwame Nkrumah would have been proud to see Ghana hosting the launch of ECOWAS’ Golden Jubilee, an institution that has remained a pillar of African unity, which he worked so hard to achieve,” Dr. Touray remarked.
He also paid special tribute to former President Akufo-Addo for his leadership both in Ghana and within ECOWAS, noting his role during some of the most challenging moments in the region’s history.
The 50th Anniversary celebration will continue with a series of activities across all 15 member states over the coming year, aimed at reconnecting ECOWAS with its citizens and charting a bold path forward.
In a speech delivered on behalf of the Chairman of ECOWAS and President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to building a resilient ECOWAS.
She emphasized the need to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a vehicle for economic transformation and called for greater investment in education and skills development. Mrs Odumegwu-Ojukwu, added that Nigeria will not relent in the pursuit of a united and prosperous West Africa.
At the event, the official anniversary logo and theme were unveiled. The theme for the celebration is: “Stronger Together for a Brighter Future.”
The 50th Anniversary celebration will continue with a series of activities across all 15 member states over the coming year, aimed at reconnecting ECOWAS with its citizens and charting a bold path forward.
