The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has honoured twelve journalists from across the sub-region at the inaugural ECOWAS Journalists Excellence Awards, held at the Coco Ocean Hotel in Banjul.The Gambia.
Among the recipients were five Nigerian journalists, celebrated for their outstanding contributions to regional journalism and storytelling.
The event, held as part of activities commemorating the ECOWAS 50th anniversary (ECOWAS@50), spotlighted media professionals whose work has promoted integration, development, and democratic values across West Africa.
The awards, as observed by WorldClass247News, were presented across six categories: television, radio, print, online journalism, photography, and videography.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of ECOWAS Commission President, H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, Chief of Staff Mr. Kolley lauded the government and people of Gambia for hosting the historic event and emphasized the vital role of journalists in the ECOWAS integration project.
“The story of ECOWAS cannot be told without the storytellers the journalists who document our progress, question our shortcomings, and elevate the voices of our citizens,” he said.
Kolley revealed that more than 200 entries were submitted for the awards, underscoring the depth of talent within the region’s media landscape. He described journalists as “agents of accountability, defenders of democracy, and catalysts for social change.”
Also speaking, Mrs. Miatta Lily French, ECOWAS Permanent Representative to The Gambia, applauded the awardees for their originality, commitment, and tenacity. She reiterated ECOWAS’ commitment to nurturing a resilient and responsible media ecosystem.
Delivering remarks on behalf of The Gambia’s Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary congratulated the honorees, affirming the country’s continued support for press freedom and regional collaboration.
“To the twelve outstanding journalists being honoured today, your voices have elevated critical narratives, amplified the concerns of communities, and helped shape a shared path toward peace, progress, and democratic resilience in West Africa,” he said.
Chair of the ECOWAS Jury Selection Committee, Mr. Abdoulie Gassama, a renowned Gambian communications expert, provided insights into the rigorous evaluation process that guided the selection of winners.
He praised the quality of submissions and encouraged journalists to continue using their platforms to advance ECOWAS Vision 2050 a people-centered, peaceful, and integrated West Africa.
List of the Nigerian awardee, as noticed by our reporter. Includes, Marcelina Ozekhome, Raymond Enoch Nyayiti, Solomon Odeniyi, Paul Ejime Print, and Emmanuel Ukpo.
Other award recipients hailed from The Gambia, Benin Republic, and various ECOWAS member states, including Sankulleh Janko and Alexandria DJotan.
The awards were instituted to honour media professionals whose work significantly highlights the socio-economic and political impact of ECOWAS on the lives of West Africans. Submissions were received between February 20 and March 20, 2025, and judged by a seven-member independent jury.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries from the ECOWAS Commission, representatives of The Gambia’s government, members of the diplomatic corps, civil society organisations, development partners, and journalists from across the region.