The ECOWAS Ad-Hoc Ministerial Committee on the Construction of Headquarters of Community Institutions met at the site of the new ECOWAS Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria, to assess progress
The new building – known as ‘The Eye of West Africa’ – is located along the Airport Road in the Nigerian city and is being constructed from a grant from the People’s Republic of China through the China International Development Cooperation Agency (China Aid). Work began at the site in November 2022 and, according to ECOWAS, substantial progress has been achieved; hitting 33% physical and 45% financial completion. As a result, the construction is expected to be completed and handed over by February 2025.
On the occasion of the committee’s visit, Damtien L. Tchintchibidja, the vice president of the ECOWAS Commission, expressed the appreciation of ECOWAS Institutions to the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the land provided, the duty waivers granted, development permits facilitated and all the other supports towards the commencement of the construction. The vice president also took the opportunity to pay thanks and respect to the People’s Republic of China, stating, “This gesture represents a beacon in the ongoing cooperation between the People’s Republic of China and ECOWAS Member States.”
Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and chairman of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, thanked his colleague Ministers for their continued commitment to advancing regional integration and socio-economic development of the region.
“The new ECOWAS Headquarters is poised to become a beacon of hope, embodying our shared values and heritage,” he added. “The structure symbolises a promising future for our people – a base from which we will continue to make important strides in regional integration, economic growth, and security.”
ECOWAS HQ construction draws closer to completion
The HQ is expected to be completed and handed over by February 2025. (Image source: ECOWAS)
