Abuja, Nigeria — President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has arrived in Nigeria’s capital after departing Freetown, ahead of the formal commissioning of the new Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Headquarters Complex.
In a statement shared on social media, President Bio said: “I departed Freetown and arrived in Abuja today ahead of the historic commissioning of the new ECOWAS Headquarters Complex. Looking forward to marking this important milestone for our Community.”
The new headquarters, known as the “Eye of West Africa,” is a state-of-the-art complex situated along Airport Road in Abuja. It brings together the ECOWAS Commission, Parliament, and Community Court of Justice under one roof, consolidating operations that were previously spread across different locations in the city. The facility includes a central nine-storey wing flanked by two seven-storey buildings and offers enhanced amenities for staff and regional activities.
Funded entirely as a grant by the People’s Republic of China, the project was constructed on a 7-hectare site and completed in record time following its groundbreaking in 2022. It was officially handed over to ECOWAS in late April 2026, representing a significant symbol of cooperation between China and West African nations as well as a boost to regional integration.
As the current Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Bio’s participation highlights Sierra Leone’s commitment to the bloc’s goals of economic development, peace, and stability across the region. ECOWAS, established in 1975, continues to play a vital role in fostering unity among its 15 member states.
The commissioning ceremony is expected to draw regional leaders and mark a proud new chapter for the organization.
Further updates on the event will be shared as details become available.
