Rivers State is set to host a landmark event in February 2025, as it becomes the first Southern Nigerian location to host an extraordinary session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament. This session will bring together lawmakers from across West Africa, marking a significant moment for both the state and the wider region.
The announcement comes as Port Harcourt, the state’s capital, continues to grapple with a prolonged political crisis. Nevertheless, the state government is working hard to ensure the successful hosting of this prestigious event.
To prepare, a delegation from the ECOWAS Parliament arrived in Port Harcourt on Monday for an inspection tour of the Obi Wali International Conference Centre, the venue selected for the upcoming session. The team was led by Awaji-Inombek Abiante, the First Rapporteur of the ECOWAS Parliament’s Committee on Political Affairs, Peace, Security, and the African Peer Review Mechanism. Abiante, who is also a member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, expressed optimism about the event’s potential.
“This is a great opportunity to showcase the diversity of our culture, food, and lifestyle,” Abiante told reporters after the inspection. “By hosting the ECOWAS Parliament here in Rivers State, local residents will gain a deeper understanding of ECOWAS activities. The event could also open up new economic opportunities as international visitors explore potential areas for investment.”
Bertin Some, the Secretary-General of the ECOWAS Parliament, also shared his satisfaction with the preparations during the inspection. “We have visited several facilities, including accommodations, transport logistics, and communication systems, and we are pleased with the progress. We are confident the event will proceed smoothly,” said Some.
The inspection team also included Ousmane Sade, Head of the Infrastructure Division, and Minapu Ngalo Moore, Clerk of Committees on Administration, Finance, and Public Accounts. Some expressed gratitude for the support provided by local officials, particularly Abiante, throughout the visit.
The 2025 session of the ECOWAS Parliament will not only provide a platform for regional lawmakers to discuss key issues but will also be an important moment for Rivers State to showcase its capacity to host international events. The event is expected to bring significant attention to the state, both politically and economically.
