UPF-Africa Marks 25th Anniversary of ECOWAS Parliament in Nigeria
- khwang562
- Dec 5
- 2 min read
Abuja, Nigeria – The solemn commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the founding of the Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) was held on December 4, 2025, at the International Conference Center in Abuja. A UPF delegation attended the celebration, including Dr. Paterne Zinsou, secretary general of UPF-Africa; Dr. George Ikpot, secretary general of UPF-Nigeria; and Hon. Ebenezer Samuel, an ambassador for peace.
The ceremony brought together, among others, members of the Community Parliament, including its speaker, H.E Hadja Mémounatou Ibrahima; speakers of regional parliaments; the former speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament; heads of ECOWAS institutions; and representatives of Nigerian authorities. In their addresses, the various speakers emphasized the crucial role of the ECOWAS Parliament in strengthening cooperation, peacebuilding, and the consolidation of democracy.
The highlight of the commemoration was the presentation of awards honoring individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the Community's endeavors. Among those recognized were the founding fathers, President Yakubu Gowon and the late President Gnassingbé Eyadéma, posthumously.
A welcome dinner on December 3 included the president of the Transitional National Assembly of Guinea, Dr. Dansa Kourouma; the deputy speaker of the National Assembly of Ghana, Rt. Hon. Bernard Ahiafor; and other prominent parliamentary and diplomatic leaders. The event provided a valuable opportunity for interaction and strengthening regional relationships among key leaders. The keynote address was delivered by H.E. Hadja Memounatou Ibrahima, president of the ECOWAS Parliament. Speakers, deputy speakers and parliamentarians from the 13 member states, representatives of intergovernmental organizations, traditional and religious leaders, and several ambassadors from the diplomatic corps were among the guests.
On December 5, UPF leaders met with 20 ambassadors for peace. Coinciding with the observance of International Volunteer Day, this occasion was leveraged to elevate the meeting to a celebration of volunteerism, service, and civic responsibility. Dr. Paterne Zinsou addressed the group, emphasizing the responsibility, mission, ethical influence, and unity of heart of ambassadors for peace. He described the ambassadors as “owners of peace: its construction, its beauty, its architecture, its values, its principles and its destiny.”
Recommendations made during the meeting included the launch of IAED Nigeria in February, 2026; the organization of an annual IAED Gala; and the establishment of a UPF-Nigeria Secretariat.
