China hands over N77.41bn ‘Eye of West Africa’ complex to ECOWAS

China has handed over a $56.5m complex named “Eye of West Africa” to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in a colourful ceremony in Abuja on Tuesday. The building project, which started in October 2023, was funded by the Government of China with an allocation of US$56.5 million. Speaking at the ceremony, the […]

China has handed over a $56.5m complex named “Eye of West Africa” to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in a colourful ceremony in Abuja on Tuesday.

The building project, which started in October 2023, was funded by the Government of China with an allocation of US$56.5 million.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria and to ECOWAS, H.E. Yu Dunhai, said the building harmonises the excellence of Chinese architectural technique with the unique culture of West Africa, establishing a new landmark for the city of Abuja.

He said the China-aid ECOWAS Headquarters building will substantially enhance the operational capacity of the West African bloc and provide a robust foundation for member states to chart the future of regional development.

“We are confident that this edifice—a vessel for the aspirations of the West African people and a symbol of the profound bond between China and Africa—will bear witness to the steady march of West African nations toward strength through unity, and the flourishing cooperation between our peoples across this vast land.

“This year marks the 70th anniversary of the inception of diplomatic relations between China and Africa. Throughout these seven decades, China has consistently prioritised its relationship with Africa, remaining a steadfast and reliable partner in Africa’s pursuit of development and national rejuvenation,” he said.

The envoy maintained that China supports African nations in exploring modernisation paths tailored to their unique national conditions and advocates for a stronger African voice in international affairs.

“Our cooperation is built on the principles of non-interference, no political strings attached, and a rejection of ‘empty promises’.

“We remain committed to a demand-driven approach that respects African autonomy and sovereignty, translating our support into tangible actions for Africa’s revitalisation,” he said.

While appreciating the long-standing commitment of ECOWAS and its member states to the One-China principle and the invaluable support provided in the United Nations and other multilateral fora, he said China will continue to support the ECOWAS Commission and uphold the principle of “African solutions to African problems”, promoting the resolution of differences through dialogue and consultation to further regional integration.

President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Alieu Touray, while speaking at the handing over ceremony, commended the completion of the project within two years, saying, “Considering the scale and complexity of a project of this nature, we salute and applaud the brothers and sisters of China for this remarkable achievement.

“This regional monument will serve as the institutional home of ECOWAS for generations to come and a symbol of an enduring partnership.”

Describing the complex, Touray said, “This is a modern office complex comprising a central wing of a ground floor plus nine upper floors, flanked by the east and west wings, each consisting of a ground floor plus seven upper floors.

“The complex also consists of office accommodation designed to house all personnel of the ECOWAS Commission, including designated project staff. These offices are fully equipped with meeting rooms on each floor, each of which can seat at least 20 persons and is fitted with interpretation assistance.

“The complex has support facilities, including facilities for archives, as well as for refreshments. Ground floor amenities include a clinic, a gym, banking facilities, shops, restaurants, an observatory, server rooms, a daycare centre, a nursing office and an exhibition space. A two-story conference centre is also included, which has a seating capacity of 800 persons and which is fully equipped with interpretation assistance, audiovisual facilities, press briefing rooms, meeting rooms and training facilities.

“It also has a dedicated support building, which houses maintenance rooms, security quarters, rooms for support teams, archives and storage facilities. And finally, it has a parking facility for about 700 people.”

He said, apart from this, China had previously partnered with ECOWAS in advancing regional integration.

“In recent years, the government of China has supported our peace and security architecture through the provision of strategic equipment and vehicles to enhance the operational readiness of the ECOWAS standby force.

“These and many other interventions across our member states make China an important and valuable strategic partner of Western Africa.

On her part, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, charge all ECOWAS Member States to remain steadfast in their dedication to the principles and protocols of the Community.

“At a time when our region is confronted with complex challenges, including security threats, political transitions, and economic pressures, our unity is not optional; it is imperative. We must continue to act in concert, speak with one voice, and uphold the shared values that bind us together.

“As the host nation, the Federal Republic of Nigeria reaffirms its enduring commitment to the success of the Economic Community of West African States. We will continue to support initiatives that promote stability, economic growth, and the well-being of our people across the region,” she said.