Experts From Member Countries In Abuja To Deliberate On Construction Of ECOWAS Headquarters  

Professionals from ECOWAS member states gathered at the ECOWAS Commission headquarters in Abuja on July 2, 2024, to review the progress of the new ECOWAS headquarters construction.

The meeting, chaired by Mr Naha Francis Ako of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was attended by key stakeholders including the ECOWAS Commission project management team, the Acting Director of Transport, Mr Chris Appiah, and the Director of Administration and General Services, Mr Seydou Kassory Bangoura, as well as Nigerian government representatives. This meeting aimed to keep the project on track and to address any potential challenges.

The meeting’s purpose was to assess the progress of work on the site and any obstacles that might arise to completing it on time. Following the technical meeting, attendees went on a field visit to the headquarters project location to see how the work was progressing. The agenda included a detailed presentation of the progress report, an on-site inspection, and a discussion of key recommendations to keep the project on track.

In addition, the participants watched a video presentation by the Chinese construction team, which provided an overview of the ongoing construction activities.

In his welcome address, the Director of Administration and General Services, Mr Seydou Kassory Bangoura, emphasised the importance of the new headquarters, stating, “This meeting marks another important step in actualizing our dream of providing the commission with a modern and conducive work environment that will lead to better productivity from all staff members and eliminate the recurring expenditure associated with office space.” In his opening remarks, Mr. Chris Appiah, Acting Director of Transport, emphasised the project’s importance, saying, “The significance of this project cannot be overstated as it represents a major milestone in our regional integration efforts.”

Mr Naha Francis Ako, a representative from Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasised the importance of collaboration, saying, “Let us work together to make this project a success and a proud legacy for our region.” Mr Ako also expressed the Nigerian government’s commitment to the project: “The Nigerian government is committed to the project’s successful completion, which will serve as a testament to our collective efforts towards regional integration and development.”

The report was adopted at the end of the meeting, followed by a formal closing ceremony.