By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria joined other West African leaders in Lagos on Wednesday to celebrate the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Golden Jubilee. The event marked 50 years of regional cooperation and integration.
Among the dignitaries present were Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Togolese President Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové, and Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Emalo. Also in attendance were former Nigerian Head of State Yakubu Gowon and ECOWAS Commission President Umar Alieu Touray.
The gathering highlighted ECOWAS’ achievements in promoting peace, economic development, and solidarity across the region since its founding in 1975. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deeper integration amid current challenges.
President Tinubu, in his remarks, praised ECOWAS’ resilience and called for stronger collaboration to address security and economic issues. The ceremony featured cultural displays and discussions on the bloc’s future.
The event concluded with a renewed pledge to advance the ECOWAS vision of a prosperous and united West Africa.