On 28 May 2025, West African leaders, international partners, the diplomatic community, government ministers and Civil Society Organisations came together to celebrate a historic milestone, the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS. It was more than a celebration; it was a powerful reminder of what’s possible – unity in diversity, progress and prosperity, purpose, vision, and a shared dream for West Africa.

Birthed in Lagos, where the ECOWAS Treaty was signed in 1975, leaders, diplomats, and citizens gathered to honor the legacy of the founding fathers of ECOWAS and recommit to the ideals of unity, peace, and economic integration. General Dr. Yakubu Gowon, the last surviving founding father, stood as a symbol of continuity and resolve, witnessing the ceremonial re-signing of the Lagos Declaration. It was emotional, hopeful, and deeply inspiring.

ECOWAS at 50 Roundtable

A roundtable event to spotlight ECOWAS as an African model of resilience, inspiring speeches that throw weight and support on reforms, from policy to action were among the highlights of the event.The message was clear: The next 50 years demand bold leadership, regional cooperation, and a deeper connection to the people we serve.

A Presidential Call to Renewed Resolve

As the current Chairman of ECOWAS, H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered the keynote address at Eko Hotels and Suites on May 28. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu call for pragmatic, citizen-focused governance and Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar’s push for economic transformation through sustainable mechanisms show that the journey ahead will require both vision and action. But perhaps the most powerful takeaway came from the collective energy in the room and West Africa is ready for the next chapter.

H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu:

– Called on leaders to rise above colonial‑drawn borders and embrace the spirit of one West Africa  .

– Urged governments to move beyond policy rhetoric “match policy with action” so citizens actually feel the impact  .

– Championned youth and women’s empowerment, saying they hold the keys to our region’s future  .

– Presented a hopeful vision, a West Africa united, with free movement, dynamic economies, and peaceful coexistence  .

Celebrating the Journey of 50 years of shared prosperity

The ceremony at Eko Hotel also paid tribute to ECOWAS’ achievements over the past five decades: from the Trade Liberalisation Scheme to peacekeeping missions, and from free movement of persons to joint responses to pandemics.

Following Lagos, President Tinubu commissioned infrastructure projects, including Section I of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway and roads at Lekki Deep Sea Port, underscoring how integration fuels development.

From a journey of 50 years to a shared commitment for Regional Integration and Prosperity for West Africa

The Golden Jubilee wasn’t just about nostalgia—it was a launchpad. Leaders, experts, and professionals left Lagos with renewed determination to:

– Strengthen trade, digital connectivity, and cross‑border innovation

– Empower youth and women with skills, education, and leadership roles

– Support regional infrastructure that binds our economies and communities

As H.E. President Tinubu emphasized, the next 50 years hinge on leadership with courage, clarity, and conviction.

As professionals, entrepreneurs, and change-makers, this moment invites us to step up. To invest in regional trade, support youth innovation, push for inclusive digital growth, and help build a stronger, more connected West Africa.

ECOWAS at 50 is not just a celebration. It is a call to action for everyone, everywhere. Let’s answer it.