Eight prestigious Nigerian universities are participating in the maiden edition of the ECOWAS Court of Justice Moot Court Competition, a significant initiative aimed at fostering legal excellence and deepening regional integration.
The participating institutions include:
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American University of Nigeria, Yola
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Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
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University of Nigeria, Nsukka
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Igbinedion University, Okada
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Lagos State University, Ojo
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University of Jos, Jos
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Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti
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University of Uyo, Uyo
Speaking at the opening ceremony in Niger State, the President of the ECOWAS Court, Hon. Justice Ricardo Claudio Monteiro Gonçalves, emphasized the competition’s strategic importance in promoting legal education, advancing human rights awareness, and reinforcing the rule of law across the region.
He noted that the objectives of the competition include:
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Enhancing students’ knowledge of the ECOWAS Court’s role in regional governance and human rights protection
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Developing advocacy, research, and analytical skills among law students
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Promoting public understanding and visibility of the Court’s work
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Creating a platform for interaction among students, academics, and legal professionals
Justice Monteiro Gonçalves remarked: “Since its establishment, the ECOWAS Court has played a pivotal role in promoting regional integration, defending human rights, and upholding the rule of law. The Court’s jurisdiction spans the interpretation and application of Community law, adjudication of human rights violations, and resolution of disputes involving Member States and ECOWAS institutions.”
He further underscored that the competition goes beyond academic engagement: “This Moot Court Competition exemplifies our commitment to public engagement and capacity building. It is not merely a contest of legal knowledge but a platform for nurturing a new generation of jurists who are critical thinkers, ethically grounded, and devoted to justice and good governance.”
Addressing the participants, he said: “This is your moment — a time for growth, intellectual challenge, and the pursuit of excellence. Approach this experience with integrity, boldness in legal reasoning, and a spirit of collaboration. While there will be a winning team, all participants are winners in their own right.”
The Chief Registrar of the ECOWAS Court, Dr. Yaouza Ouro-Sama, also addressed attendees, affirming the Court’s intention to expand the competition to include other ECOWAS Member States in future editions.
Dr. Ouro-Sama stated: “We encourage participants to engage actively, absorb the experience, and use the knowledge gained to build confidence for future practice before real courts. We hope this platform will stimulate rich intellectual discourse and inspire a lasting commitment to the principles of justice.”
The inaugural ECOWAS Moot Court Competition marks a milestone in the Court’s engagement with the academic community and its efforts to strengthen the legal fabric of the West African region.
