China hands over new ECOWAS headquarters building in Abuja
The new headquarters of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), constructed by the Government of the People’s Republic of China, has been handed over in a ceremony held on Tuesday in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, described the occasion as a historic milestone that goes beyond the commissioning of a physical structure, emphasizing its significance for regional unity, cooperation, and sustainable development.
She noted that since its establishment in 1975, ECOWAS has evolved into one of Africa’s most dynamic regional blocs, playing a central role in peacekeeping, conflict prevention, democratic governance, and economic integration across West Africa.
According to the Minister, the new headquarters represents a strategic asset that will strengthen institutional capacity, enhance collaboration among member states, and support the Commission’s ability to address emerging regional and global challenges.
She added that the facility is expected to serve as a hub for policy innovation, dialogue, and coordinated action.
The minister commended Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued leadership and commitment to regional integration, noting that his vision for a stable and economically resilient West Africa remains a driving force within the bloc.
She also expressed appreciation to President Xi Jinping and the Government of China for what she described as a “remarkable gesture of goodwill,” highlighting the project as a symbol of deepening Africa-China relations built on mutual respect and shared prosperity.
“The construction and delivery of this iconic edifice reflects China’s continued support for Africa’s development priorities and will stand as a lasting legacy for generations,” local media reports quoted the minister as saying.
The complex spans 70,186 square metres, with a total floor area of 36,606 square meters, comprises an office building, a conference centre, and a range of supporting facilities, including internal roads, utility networks, public plazas, parking areas, and a helipad.
This modern complex integrates administrative, conference and service functions and it is funded through the China-Aid Project, a flagship initiative under China–ECOWAS cooperation and funded and implemented by the Chinese government.
The idea was first proposed by ECOWAS during the first meeting of the China–ECOWAS Joint Committee on Economic and Trade Cooperation in November 2015.
In March 2018, the two sides signed exchange of letters confirming China’s support for the project. Construction began in November 2021 and was completed in December 2025.
GI/APA