In a bold move to amplify the role of journalism in regional development, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reaffirmed its commitment to honoring media professionals whose work enhances public understanding of the bloc’s mission and achievements.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the inaugural ECOWAS Media Excellence Awards 2025 in Abuja, the Senior Adviser to the ECOWAS President, Mr. Mambury Njie, emphasized the importance of recognizing journalistic excellence as a means of reinforcing transparency, democracy, and integration across West Africa.
“This is part of our collective responsibility—to honor those who bring the realities on the ground to light and give voice to the truth,” Njie stated. “The visibility ECOWAS has enjoyed over the years is largely thanks to dedicated journalists.”
He reassured attendees of a credible and impartial selection process, anchored by ECOWAS’ strong governance principles. Njie added that the awards go beyond ceremonial gestures, positioning them as part of a long-term vision to inspire media-driven development over the next five decades.
The event, themed “50 Years of ECOWAS – Honouring the Voices That Tell Our Story,” marks the first time the regional bloc is formally celebrating outstanding journalism that champions human rights, peace, democracy, and unity in West Africa.
Mr. Joel Ahofodji, Principal Officer of Information and Communication, described the initiative as a historic milestone, aimed at setting a precedent for annual recognition of media contributions to regional progress.
A seven-member jury drawn from across the ECOWAS region will evaluate submissions based on quality, originality, and impact. Jury members include Adrienne Diop (Senegal), Yemi Kolapo (Nigeria), Paul Douakoutche (Benin), Filomena Silva (Cabo Verde), Bamba Mafoumgbe (Côte d’Ivoire), Abdoulie Gassama (Gambia), and Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Awal (Ghana).
Both Diop and Kolapo praised the initiative for shedding light on the often-overlooked efforts of journalists. “We have so many beautiful works by journalists across West Africa, yet rarely do we stop to appreciate them,” Kolapo noted. “Journalists give others recognition every day—it’s time the spotlight shines on them too.”
The awards are expected to become an annual tradition, fostering a culture of excellence and ethical reporting that drives sustainable development and unity across the region.
