President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, has departed the country to attend the 50th Anniversary Commemorative Ceremony of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The ceremony began on Tuesday, May 28, 2025, in Lagos, Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The ceremony, according to a release, is hosted by the Government of Nigeria. It will convene heads of state and
government, regional leaders, and other dignitaries to celebrate five decades of West African cooperation, regional integration, and solidarity under the ECOWAS framework.
Key events will include a symbolic re-enactment at the National Institute of International Affairs (NIIA)—the historic site where the foundational discussions of ECOWAS were held in 1975.
“The event will pay tribute to the NIIA’s significant role in the formation of ECOWAS and reaffirm the region’s continued commitment to integration, peace, and development,” the release said.
On the sideline, Pres. Boakai is expected to participate in a series of commemorative activities, including the signing of a special 50th Anniversary Card, a collective declaration by heads of state reaffirming their commitment to the ECOWAS vision, the main anniversary ceremony, and a round table conference on regional development at the NIIA.
The President’s attendance highlights the country’s unwavering dedication to regional collaboration and to the ideals and objectives of ECOWAS, particularly in the areas of peacebuilding, economic cooperation, and sustainable development.
According to the release, Pres. Boakai is accompanied by a “small delegation,” including Deweh Gray, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, Major General Daniel D. Ziankahn (Rtd.), Military Advisor to the President, and Attorney Samuel Koffi Woods II, National Security Advisor.
The President is also accompanied by his communications, protocol, and security teams.
While the President is away, the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Sylvester Grigsby, will chair the cabinet in consultation with Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Vice President, and the President via telephone.
Pres. Boakai and delegation are expected to return to the country at the conclusion of the activities on Thursday, May 29, 2025.
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