By NewsDesk
The Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) will gather in Accra, Ghana, on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, to officially launch the year-long celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the regional bloc.
Established on May 28, 1975, in Lagos, Nigeria, ECOWAS has grown into one of Africa’s most successful and structured Regional Economic Communities (RECs), with notable achievements in promoting regional integration, peace, and economic development across West Africa.
The launch event in Accra will bring together top dignitaries, including Heads of State, Ministers, and other high-level officials from across the 15 ECOWAS Member States. It marks the start of a series of commemorative activities that will take place throughout 2025 in all member countries.
“This Golden Jubilee is not just a celebration of our past, but a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to regional unity, peace, and prosperity,” said an ECOWAS official ahead of the event.
The festivities in Accra will include the unveiling of the official ECOWAS Golden Jubilee logo and theme, as well as artistic and cultural performances that trace the institution’s journey, from its founding in Lagos to its numerous reforms and milestones.
According to the ECOWAS Commission, the 50th anniversary celebrations were recommended by the Conference of Heads of State and Government to be marked with visibility and pride in each member country. In February 2025, the ECOWAS Administrative and Financial Committee held a virtual meeting to validate the proposed lineup of activities for the commemorations.
ECOWAS continues to play a vital role in addressing regional challenges, including peacekeeping, economic integration, and cross-border cooperation. As it turns 50, the bloc will be reflecting on its achievements while also charting a course for the future.
The Golden Jubilee celebrations are expected to unite citizens across West Africa under the shared vision of a more integrated and resilient region.