The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has inducted 98 young professionals from 12 Member States into its Young Professionals Programme (YPP). The induction ceremony took place over two days, from May 20th to 21st, at the ECOWAS Training Centre in Abuja. This event highlights the Commission’s strategic focus on youth as key players in regional integration and development.
Dr. Roland Kouakou, Acting Director of Education, Science and Culture, presided over the opening ceremony on behalf of H.E. Professor Fatou Sow Sarr, Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs. In his keynote address, Dr. Kouakou emphasized the importance of this initiative and praised H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, for his commitment to empowering youth in West Africa.
“I invite you to make the most of this Internship —seize every opportunity to learn, share, innovate, and excel,” Dr. Kouakou urged the new participants. “This programme is a unique opportunity to assert your leadership, build strong networks, and lay the foundation for a lasting professional contribution to the development of our region.”
He further reminded them: “You are the builders of tomorrow. By opening its doors to you, ECOWAS is also entrusting you with a mission—to actively contribute to shaping the future of our community. You are now ambassadors of West African integration.”
The YPP is an important initiative by ECOWAS aimed at attracting talented individuals from across the region who are dynamic and motivated. It seeks to bring fresh perspectives and innovative skills into the Commission while developing a sustainable pool of professionals dedicated to regional cooperation.
During their induction period, participants interacted with key directorates within the Commission. They gained insights into ECOWAS’s institutional structure and strategic priorities through interactive sessions that encouraged networking and dialogue.
Through this programme, ECOWAS continues its commitment to empowering youth as agents for peace, integration, and sustainable development—central elements in its vision for transitioning from an “ECOWAS of States” to an “ECOWAS of Peoples” by 2050.