The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) celebrated its 49th anniversary by hosting an engaging awareness session for secondary school students at its headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria.
The event, organised by the ECOWAS Commission’s Directorate of Communication, aimed to enlighten the youth about the organisation’s mission, significant achievements, and vision for the future.
The interactive session included detailed presentations on various ECOWAS programmes benefiting the populations of its 15 member states.
Key areas covered were external relations, humanitarian assistance, the ECOWAS Volunteer Programme, internship and scholarship opportunities, free movement, infrastructure, and transportation.
More than 200 students from Africa Community School, Community Secondary School, Army Day Secondary School, and Treasure Orphanage attended the event.
These students were exposed to the extensive work ECOWAS does to improve regional cooperation and development.
Her Excellency, Damtien L. Tchintchibidja, Vice President of the ECOWAS Commission, addressed the students, urging them to strive for academic excellence and take a keen interest in ECOWAS’s initiatives.
She emphasised the importance of their future roles in society and encouraged them to become proactive members of their communities.
The event also featured interactive quiz games, fostering a lively and educational atmosphere. Presentations were given by Dr. Babatunde Idowu on External Relations, Mrs. Francisca Echabor on Humanitarian Affairs, Mrs. Aicha Usman on Scholarships and Internships, and Mr. Peter Ofori-Asumadu on Infrastructure and Transportation.
