The Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Sunday in Abuja, Nigeria, laid the Foundation of the new ECOWAS Headquarters building.
The new headquarters project, which is being financed by the Chinese Government through China Aid is expected to be completed in 26 months.
The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, said in his address at the ceremony that the Commission was thankful to thanked the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for providing the plot covering an area of seven hectares along the Airport Road in Abuja for the building project and the Chinese Government who provided technical and financial support for the construction of the headquarters.
He added that the new headquarters will enhance productivity among staff and reduce operational costs as the ECOWAS Commission currently operates from three locations in Abuja.
In his remarks, Cui Jianchun, the ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and ECOWAS, said that the Government of China was keen on expanding diplomatic relations with Africa through support for construction projects like the new ECOWAS Commission headquarters.
He stated that these buildings demonstrate China’s sincere determination to support the unity, peace and development of the African region along her efforts to promote and support Africa’s infrastructure development programme.
Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari, noted that the project represents China’s commitment to West Africa’s sub-regional bloc and evidence of a strong and cooperation between Africa and China.
He added that the new Headquarters is a symbol of the unity and brotherhood of ECOWAS Member States and signifies a re-commitment to regional integration and development of the countries in the sub-region.
He thanked the Chinese Government for their technical and financial support for the building.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government and President of the Republic of Guinea Bissau, Mr. Umaro Sissoco Embaló, thanked the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for their contribution towards the realization of the building complex.
He said that the new and modern headquarters wouldl enable the staff of the ECOWAS Commission perform their duties better and provide a suitable working environment.
The statement by the ECOWAS Commission quoted the Chairman as saying that the new ECOWAS Headquarters will house the ECOWAS Commission, Community Court of Justice and the ECOWAS Parliament all Headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria.
GIK/APA