Ghana to Host Dignitaries from 15 ECOWAS Member States for 50th Anniversary Celebrations
Accra, Ghana - 17 April, 2025 - Ghana is set to host a significant event as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) celebrates its 50th anniversary. The ceremony, scheduled for April 22, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre, will bring together key dignitaries, including Heads of State and Government from member countries, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, and representatives from regional and international partner organizations.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed at a press briefing on Thursday April 17 that President John Dramani Mahama has extended an invitation to the military leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, who recently formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) after withdrawing from ECOWAS. This gesture is seen as an effort to strengthen regional ties and build bridges.
“This Jubilee is not just a commemoration — it is a call to action. We must use this occasion to rekindle hope in the ECOWAS vision and chart a bold course for the next 50 years.
He launch ceremony will feature prominent attendees, including Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria's President and Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, along with the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Heads of State and Government from member nations, and representatives of partner organizations.
According to him, key dignitaries from all 15 ECOWAS member states are expected to attend, making it a significant diplomatic and cultural gathering. The event will also showcase artistic performances highlighting West Africa's rich cultural heritage and unveil the ECOWAS Golden Jubilee logo and theme.
Ablakwa emphasized the need for enhanced diplomacy and commitment to the vision of a united and prosperous West Africa, particularly in light of the AES nations' withdrawal. He highlighted ECOWAS's achievements in regional trade, infrastructure development, and peacekeeping efforts.
“While the withdrawal of the AES nations presents a challenge to our cohesion, ECOWAS must respond with enhanced diplomacy and unwavering commitment to the vision of a united and prosperous West Africa,” the Minister emphasised.
“It is about the entrepreneur in Accra and Abidjan, the student in Lagos and Dakar, the peacekeeper in Banjul and Bissau — it is about people,” he said.
Ghana's role in hosting this event is notable, given its historical leadership in Pan-Africanism and regional integration. The nation has formed a Planning Committee to ensure a successful celebration, with ECOWAS covering most of the financial costs and Ghana providing logistical and security support.
Source: Lead News Online
