In a groundbreaking step toward strengthening regional legal systems and empowering the next generation of jurists, the President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, Justice Ricardo Claudio Monteiro Gonçalves, today formally launched the inaugural ECOWAS Court Moot Court Competition at a high-level ceremony held at Zuma Rock Resorts in Niger State, Nigeria.
The event drew an esteemed audience of judges, legal scholars, academics, university representatives, and ECOWAS officials, all united in celebrating what is being described as a landmark initiative in the advancement of legal education and regional integration in West Africa.
Describing the competition as “an important milestone in the strengthening of legal culture and regional integration,” Justice Gonçalves emphasized the event’s broader mission beyond academia. “This Moot Court Competition reflects our enduring commitment to public engagement and to nurturing the next generation of legal minds,” he declared. 
Justice Gonçalves noted that the competition is a strategic platform to enhance awareness of the ECOWAS Court’s role in upholding peace, human rights, and integration across the region.
It is also designed to equip aspiring lawyers with essential skills in advocacy, research, and legal writing—tools critical not only in courtrooms but in public service and policy development.
“This is not just a contest,” the Court President said in his address to the participants. “It is about shaping jurists who are critical thinkers and champions of justice.”
Also Read: Diaspora Investors Urge President Tinubu to Act on Environmental Impact Report for Coastal Highway
Themed “Promoting Regional Integration and Human Rights through Judicial Processes in West Africa,” the 2025 edition of the competition has been hailed as both timely and transformative.
Justice Gonçalves underlined the legal dimension of integration efforts: “Regional integration is not solely an economic or political pursuit, it is also a legal one. It is built on institutions that are transparent, fair, and accessible to all.”
This maiden edition features eight Nigerian universities, carefully selected from thirteen applicants based on the quality of their written memorials. The President revealed plans for the competition to become an annual event, with future editions expanding to include law faculties across all ECOWAS Member States.
In his remarks, Justice Gonçalves expressed deep gratitude to the ECOWAS Commission, ECOWAS Parliament, the Nigerian Bar Association, and the participating universities for their support.
He also paid special tribute to the Organizing Committee, jury members, and Court staff whose efforts made the competition a reality.
The ceremony concluded with the official opening of the competition, signaling the start of a promising tradition aimed at promoting legal excellence, regional cooperation, and youth empowerment.
“May the best team win,” the President said, “and may this competition inspire a new generation to uphold the ideals of justice, solidarity, and integration in West Africa.”
