The 25th anniversary celebrations of the ECOWAS Parliament concluded on a lively note with a symbolic football match in Abuja, bringing together Members of Parliament, staff and partners in a show of solidarity and team spirit.
The friendly match, featured mixed teams comprising parliamentarians, administrative staff, interpreters, interns and other stakeholders. The Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament. Hadja Mémounatou Ibrahima, performed the ceremonial kick-off, signalling what she described as “a celebration of unity beyond legislative walls.”
“Today’s match is more than a game,” the Speaker said. “It reflects 25 years of cohesion, teamwork and the collective resolve that have shaped this Parliament since its inception. Sports bring us together just as our mandate brings our region together.”
Participants and spectators enjoyed the festive atmosphere, which organisers said embodied the spirit of inclusiveness the Parliament has promoted throughout its history. The football match capped a series of commemorative activities held to honour the institution’s contributions to regional integration, democracy and people-centred governance.
For many staff and MPs, the event served as a reminder of the Parliament’s mission to strengthen unity within West Africa. As one participant noted, “This is how ECOWAS works—different people, different backgrounds, but one team.”
