China has officially handed over the newly constructed Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) headquarters building in Abuja, describing it as a landmark symbol of friendship, regional cooperation, and shared development with West Africa.
At the handover ceremony, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Yu Dunhai, called the event a historic moment in the three-decade-long relationship between China and the subregional bloc. He noted that ties have continued to flourish based on mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit, and win-win cooperation.
“This is a great milestone,” Mr Yu said, adding that China and ECOWAS have deepened political trust, strengthened practical cooperation, supported peace and stability, and promoted people-to-people exchanges over the years.
He described the complex as a modern, intelligent, and multifunctional facility that would enhance the effectiveness of the ECOWAS Commission. “The successful handover of this building will enhance the operational capacity of the ECOWAS Commission and also provide a platform for member states to chart the future of regional development.”
The ambassador reaffirmed that China’s cooperation model with Africa is based on sovereignty, non-interference, and the absence of political conditions. “Our cooperation has always been based on the actual needs of African countries,” he said.
Mr Yu also praised Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa and globally, noting that bilateral ties have accelerated since President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to China in 2024. He highlighted key cooperation projects, including the Lekki Deep Sea Port, railways, roads, and airports, adding: “But our cooperation extends beyond traditional infrastructure. We are now expanding into the digital economy, green economy, and modern agriculture.”
He stressed the importance of food security and noted that Huawei had trained more than 70,000 Nigerian youths in information technology. “We look forward to more cooperation in the future and to offering opportunities to Nigerian youths,” he said.
ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray expressed appreciation for China’s support, stating that the new headquarters would provide a major institutional boost for implementing regional decisions on trade, peace, security, and free movement. He also noted that China’s zero-tariff policy for African exports presents a significant economic opportunity for ECOWAS member states.
“China is a massive market. Having access to such a market for our produce and products is a major opportunity that we must all seize,” Mr Touray said, adding that stronger economic opportunities would also promote peace and security by reducing poverty-driven insecurity.
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said the occasion represented more than the opening of a building. “It represents the consolidation of a vision, a reaffirmation of unity, and a renewed commitment to the ideals of regional integration, peace, and sustainable development,” she said.
