Eight universities from Nigeria have qualified to participate in the ECOWAS Court of Justice Moot Court Competition, an initiative designed to deepen understanding of regional legal systems and promote human rights and integration across West Africa.
The qualifying institutions are:
- Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
- University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus
- University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
- Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti
- Lagos State University
- American University of Nigeria, Adamawa
- University of Jos, Plateau State
- Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State
The announcement was made during the competition’s opening ceremony held on Wednesday in Niger State.
Justice Ricardo Goncalves, President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, highlighted the competition’s four primary goals:
- Enhancing education about the Court’s roles and contributions
- Equipping students with investigative, advocacy, and legal writing skills
- Promoting awareness of the Court’s work among Member States
- Encouraging regional integration through legal collaboration
He revealed that the eight teams were selected from a competitive pool of 13 institutions after a rigorous memorial submission phase. Goncalves also expressed optimism that future editions will expand to include more universities across all ECOWAS Member States.
Reflecting on the Court’s broader mission, he stated:
“The Court has delivered landmark judgments that have reformed national policies, protected individual freedoms, and strengthened democratic governance across West Africa.”
The Chief Registrar of the Court, Dr. Yaouza Ouro-Sama, also spoke at the event, underscoring the competition’s real-world legal value. He noted that participants prepare and present legal arguments on fictional cases, simulating actual courtroom procedures.
“This competition isn’t just about public speaking,” he said. “It’s about persuasive advocacy, critical thinking, and building the confidence essential for tomorrow’s legal professionals.”
Dr. Ouro-Sama urged students to take full advantage of the experience, calling it an opportunity to grow, network, and gain insight into the region’s legal landscape.
“Through initiatives like this, the Court actively fosters regional integration and nurtures a sense of legal community among young law students,” he added. “We hope this inspires participants and strengthens their dedication to justice.”
