President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned the new headquarters of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Abuja, describing the facility as a symbol of renewal, resilience, and confidence in the future of the regional body.
The President, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said the opening of the new complex would renew West Africa’s commitment to regional integration, peace, industrialisation, and shared prosperity.
Tinubu Commissions New ECOWAS Headquarters
Speaking at the event on Thursday, President Tinubu noted that the new building, referred to as the “Eye of Africa,” marks more than just the inauguration of an impressive landmark. He described it as the renewal of a covenant with the founding ideals of ECOWAS more than five decades ago.
“Today marks not only the inauguration of an impressive landmark, but the renewal of a covenant — our covenant with the ideals of regional integration, solidarity, and shared prosperity,” the President said.
He urged member states to move beyond being merely a regional market and instead become a regional production base capable of driving industrial growth and economic transformation across West Africa.
Call for Shift to Regional Production Base
President Tinubu highlighted the need for ECOWAS countries to deepen economic cooperation by focusing on production rather than just trade. He said this shift would help the region achieve greater self-reliance and competitiveness in the global economy.
The new headquarters is expected to serve as a modern hub for coordination, diplomacy, and policy implementation among the 15 member states of the regional bloc.
ECOWAS Achievements Highlighted
The President noted that ECOWAS remains one of the most respected regional economic communities in the world. He cited major progress recorded in peace-building, democratic governance, economic cooperation, and the free movement of people, goods, and services across borders.
He said these achievements reflect the collective resolve of member states to preserve the community’s founding principles despite challenges.
Symbol of Renewal and Resilience
Vice President Shettima, who performed the commissioning on behalf of the President, joined other dignitaries at the colourful event. The new complex is seen as a major infrastructural upgrade that will enhance the operational capacity of the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja.
The commissioning comes at a time when the regional body continues to navigate issues of security, economic integration, and political stability in the sub-region.
