President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged West African leaders to recommit to the founding ideals of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), as the regional bloc marked its 50th anniversary with an official launch ceremony in Accra on Tuesday.

Addressing a high-level audience of heads of state, diplomats and stakeholders, Tinubu described the Jubilee milestone as a “moment of renewal” and a call to action in the face of deepening challenges and emerging threats confronting the region.

“Five decades ago, our founding fathers from 15 nations envisioned regional economic integration, cooperation, and shared prosperity, from the ashes of colonialism and the turbulence of post-independence struggles, they forged ECOWAS—a beacon of hope for our people.”Tinubu declared.

The Nigerian leader hailed ECOWAS as “the most successful regional economic community on the African continent,” citing landmark achievements such as the ECOWAS passport, the success of ECOMOG in conflict mediation, and strides in intra-regional trade.

However, Tinubu did not shy away from addressing the hard truths of the present.

“Despite our shared vision, too many of our citizens still live in poverty, too many of our children lack access to quality education, and too many of our youth remain unemployed, disillusioned, or forced to seek opportunities abroad,” he said.

He expressed deep concern over the rise of unconstitutional regimes and instability, stating: “The wave of unconstitutional changes in our region seriously threatens the democratic gains we have painstakingly built.”

Reaffirming Nigeria’s role as a regional anchor, Tinubu, who currently serves as Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, pledged continued commitment to democracy, the rule of law, good governance, and solidarity among Member States.

The President also pushed for deeper economic integration through the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the realisation of a single West African currency, and improved infrastructure connectivity.

Commending his Ghanaian counterpart, President John Dramani Mahama, Tinubu said: “Your visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and steadfast commitment to regional integration and more development ideals have been a source of inspiration and strength.”

He also lauded the ECOWAS Commission staff for their professionalism and hard work in organising the Jubilee celebrations.