The ECOWAS Court of Justice has taken a proactive step towards fortifying its risk management framework by inaugurating a workshop dedicated to the thorough examination of its existing strategies and the formulation of a comprehensive risk register for the year 2024. The workshop, conducted under the theme “Risks Register Training and Preparation of the 2024 Risks Register,” is designed to equip key stakeholders with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively implement robust risk management strategies.
A statement released by the ECOWAS Court highlighted the primary objective of the workshop, which is to empower Judges, Directors, Heads of Divisions/Units, and other relevant personnel with the expertise required to identify and address potential risks associated with their respective roles.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Justice Edward Amoako Asante, the President of the Court, underscored the critical nature of the workshop in developing and adopting a Risk Register tailored to the specific needs of the ECOWAS Court of Justice. Justice Asante emphasized the importance of providing heads of divisions and units with the necessary tools to proactively manage risks, recognizing their significance in ensuring the smooth functioning of the Court.
Participants were encouraged to actively engage with the expert guidance provided during the workshop sessions on the development and management of a comprehensive risk register. Justice Asante highlighted the risk register as an essential tool for proactive risk management and decision-making within the institution.
Dr. Alfred Braimah, former Auditor General of the Institutions of the Community and Lead Consultant for the workshop, addressed participants, reminding them of the omnipresence of risks in everyday life. Dr. Braimah stressed the importance of acknowledging and addressing risks within the framework of the Court’s operations.
Mr. Babatunde Oladipo, a consultant involved in the workshop, drew attention to the evolving nature of risks, pointing out that while participants may be familiar with certain risks, they may be unprepared for emerging ones. He defined Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) as the proactive art of averting or mitigating risks before they materialize, thereby facilitating informed decision-making.
As part of the workshop’s practical component, participants are expected to define risks specific to their respective departments and submit solutions aimed at mitigating potential consequences. This collaborative effort is geared towards optimizing the Court’s objectives while maintaining a vigilant stance against potential risks.
The ECOWAS Court of Justice remains committed to fostering a culture of risk awareness and proactive risk management within its organizational framework, as demonstrated by the initiation of this comprehensive workshop.
