ECOWAS celebrates 50th anniversary in Lagos, Nigeria
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) celebrated its 50th anniversary in Lagos, Nigeria. Since its establishment on May 28, 1975, ECOWAS has grown into one of Africa’s most prominent and influential regional blocs, supporting the free movement of people, goods, and ideas while advocating for political stability and economic development across West Africa.
Three events were held to celebrate the importance of the event, the first was a symbolic Re-Enactment and Signing of the Lagos Declaration by the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government in the presence of Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Dr. Yakubu Gowon, and the only surviving founding father; then a Commemorative Ceremony; and a Roundtable Conference titled “ECOWAS, an African Model @50: Resilience and Future Prospects.”
The ECOWAS journey began in Lagos, Nigeria, where 15 West African nations came together to sign the historic Treaty of Lagos. Their collective aim was bold and forward-thinking: to strengthen regional integration and lay the groundwork for shared prosperity.
The vision was driven by the tireless efforts of Togolese President Gnassingbé Eyadéma, and General Gowon, who travelled across the region rallying support for a union that could serve the interests of millions. With former Liberian President William Tubman appointed as its first leader, ECOWAS began shaping a roadmap for cooperation.
Over the decades, the bloc has made significant strides, from implementing trade and transport protocols to launching the ECOWAS passport and eliminating internal border identification requirements in 1990. These measures helped create a more interconnected region, where citizens could move freely and businesses could thrive beyond national borders.
Beyond economic goals, ECOWAS has also played a key role in peacekeeping and mediation, stepping in to stabilize member states during times of political upheaval and conflict. Its leadership in conflict resolution, in countries like Sierra Leone, Liberia, and The Gambia, earned international respect and reinforced its commitment to a peaceful and democratic West Africa.
Still, the path has not been without obstacles. In 2023, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger announced their withdrawal from the bloc, citing political differences and dissatisfaction with its stance on recent military takeovers. The three countries went on to form the Alliance of Sahel States, realigning their security partnerships toward Russia and away from traditional Western allies like France and the U.S.
While their departure posed a challenge to the bloc’s cohesion, ECOWAS responded with measured diplomacy rather than confrontation. Transitional guidelines were put in place to maintain visa-free travel and trade in the short term, signalling the bloc’s commitment to dialogue and regional continuity.
“This time around, we will not miss out. We will be organised under ECOWAS. We will ensure it is fair. We will leverage our scale, unity, youthfulness, and talent. There is no such thing as splendid isolation, only common purpose can meet the challenges of today,” said H.E. Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria and Chair of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, in his welcome address.
Recent developments such as the Alliance’s imposition of a 0.5 percent import duty on ECOWAS goods have stirred fresh tensions and raised questions about the future of regional trade integration. As member states convene in Accra to discuss next steps, the need for thoughtful negotiation and renewed commitment to shared goals is more important than ever.
Yet, even amid shifting alliances, the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS is a moment to celebrate how far the region has come. With a young and rapidly growing population, vast natural resources, and a blossoming tech sector, West Africa holds immense potential. ECOWAS remains uniquely positioned to harness this promise, expand intra-African trade, and strengthen its voice on the global stage.
“This Golden Jubilee does not mark an end. It represents a new beginning—the renewal of a promise of unity, integration, and shared prosperity for another fifty years. It is beautiful and wonderful to be together, because only together can we create the conditions for a bright future for our region,” said H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission.
As the bloc looks ahead to the next 50 years, its mission remains to build a more integrated, resilient, and prosperous West Africa for generations to come.
“The Treaty of Lagos was more than a legal document; it was a declaration of hope, the formation of a new regional chapter, and a charter of our collective destiny. We envisioned an ECOWAS that would break artificial borders created by colonial administrators, facilitate trade, enable the free movement of people, and promote a culture of peace, understanding, and dialogue across our diverse region,” said General Gowon calling for solidarity.
Written by Kweku Sampson, edited by Abeeb Lekan Sodiq
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