ECOWAS Court President Highlights Major Institutional Challenges At Staff Retirement Ceremony
The President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, Justice Ricardo Gonçalves, has raised concerns over the persistent challenges undermining the effective functioning of the Court, notably the lack of enforcement of its judgments and the continued delay in operationalising its arbitration mandate.
Justice Gonçalves made these remarks in Abuja on Wednesday during a ceremony organised to honour four retired senior staff members of the Court. While commending their years of dedicated service, he used the occasion to spotlight critical institutional hurdles that demand urgent attention.
“The problem of implementing our decisions has been highlighted as one of the greatest challenges facing our institution,” Gonçalves said. “Along with this, we could also add the challenge of operationalising the Court’s arbitration jurisdiction, the use of the prejudicial referral mechanism, and the creation of a legal aid fund.”
He noted that the Court aimed for regional justice and integration, but systemic issues have limited its impact. He stressed that addressing these issues will keep the Court relevant in West Africa’s evolving political landscape.
Referring to the recent withdrawals of three member states from the ECOWAS bloc, the Court President described the development as unprecedented in the organisation’s nearly 50-year history. “This has far-reaching implications—social, financial, and security-wise—for the sub-region,” he stated, calling for inclusive dialogue and strong civil society participation in reshaping the future of the regional body.
Turning to the honourees, Gonçalves praised their professional and human contributions to the Court, stating that their wisdom and commitment would continue to inspire current and future staff.
Chief Registrar of the Court, Yaouza Ouro-Sama, praised the retirees. He stressed their legacies extend beyond years of service. “They built lasting relationships and shaped lives during their careers,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Mr. Felicien Hounkanrin, who served the Court for two decades, echoed concerns about insufficient funding, which he said stalled the execution of several developmental initiatives. He encouraged current staff to remain committed despite the challenges, urging them to keep striving toward the Court’s progress.
The event ended on a reflective and hopeful note, with attendees acknowledging both the achievements and the pressing need for reform within the ECOWAS judicial framework.
