Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional justice and integration within the ECOWAS framework
Odumegwu-Ojukwu made this known at a meeting with the President of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, Ricardo C.M. Gonçalve, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.
The meeting focused on addressing challenges surrounding the enforcement of judgments of the Court across Member States.
Justice Gonçalves said “the visit formed part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of Economic Community of West African States and was aimed at strengthening compliance with the Court’s decisions.”
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He disclosed that 128 cases involving Nigeria have been registered at the Court, with 66 concluded, 10 judgments executed, and 52 still pending enforcement.
According to him, “delays in execution undermine the credibility of the Court and the broader objectives of regional judicial integration, noting Nigeria’s strategic role as a founding and leading Member State.”
In her response, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu assured the delegation that the concerns raised would be conveyed to relevant national authorities, including the Federal Ministry of Justice, for necessary action.
She described the enforcement statistics as ‘requiring serious attention’ and emphasised Nigeria’s responsibility to lead by example in strengthening ECOWAS institutions.
The Minister also identified factors contributing to enforcement challenges, including limited awareness of the Court’s mandate, institutional capacity gaps, and differences in domestic legal frameworks.
She highlighted ongoing efforts to improve public awareness of ECOWAS institutions, including initiatives to promote ECOWAS Clubs in educational institutions.
She expressed optimism that enhanced dialogue, coordination, and standardized enforcement mechanisms would improve compliance and reinforce the credibility of the ECOWAS judicial system.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu reiterated Nigeria’s enduring commitment to regional integration, the rule of law, and effective multilateral cooperation within the ECOWAS Community.