The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Touray, emphasized the necessity for the subregional organization to uphold its reputation as a benchmark for regional integration in Africa, despite the challenges it currently faces. Dr. Touray made these remarks in Abuja during a retirement ceremony held by ECOWAS for its staff members who are set to leave the commission this year. He noted that ECOWAS has made significant progress over the years in various areas, including the free movement of individuals, intra-regional trade, energy initiatives, and the development of community infrastructure, among others.
He acknowledged that the accomplishments of ECOWAS are largely attributable to its dedicated staff, many of whom are nearing retirement. Dr. Touray expressed his heartfelt appreciation for their exceptional contributions, highlighting that those retiring have played an integral role in this journey. “I am confident that together, we can enhance this community and continue to position it as a leading model of integration on the continent.”
We have a significant journey ahead, but I am optimistic that we can maintain ECOWAS as a benchmark for regional integration. As you are aware, the heads of state within ECOWAS have demonstrated their trust in the organization by ensuring that financial issues that previously hindered our progress are no longer a concern. It is essential for us to uphold that trust, and I am certain that our staff will continue to strive to earn it.
Touray emphasized that despite the commission’s many successes, the community still encounters numerous obstacles. He encouraged the commission’s personnel to refrain from viewing challenges in isolation and to adopt a broader perspective, recognizing that the entire world is facing turmoil. “What is occurring in our region mirrors global realities. Our efforts to tackle these challenges must be inclusive and as comprehensive as possible. These challenges can be overcome. I am confident that together we can effectively address them,” he said.
The president of the commission recognized the existing challenges but emphasized a strong commitment to move past them. “Life is inherently filled with challenges and solutions. Our true strength is not in the absence of problems, but in our ability to tackle and resolve them. I am confident that the answers to these challenges are within your reach, in the hands of the staff, as integral members of the community,” he stated. Additionally, ECOWAS Vice President Damtien Tchintchibidja addressed the staff, highlighting that each individual plays a vital role within the organization and that their contributions significantly affect the overall community.
ECOWAS embodies each of us; it represents you and me, as well as every individual within our community. “It is crucial that we uphold the principles and values of ECOWAS, striving to create a better environment for our community, our children, and future generations,” she stated. Professor Nazif Darma, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Internal Services, emphasized that the commission’s most valuable asset is its human resources, who diligently work to implement projects and programs that benefit its 400 million citizens. In a response on behalf of the retirees, Dr. Tony Elumelu, ECOWAS Director of the Private Sector, expressed gratitude to the management for organizing the retirement ceremony. “We celebrate two significant moments: our arrival and our departure. Witnessing your faces as we leave brings us encouragement,” he remarked.
