Eight Nigerian Universities Qualify for ECOWAS Moot Court Competition

Eight universities in Nigeria have been selected to participate in the prestigious ECOWAS Court of Justice Moot Court Competition, an initiative designed to deepen legal education, foster regional integration, and promote human rights within West Africa.

The qualified institutions include Ahmadu Bello University (Zaria), University of Nigeria (Enugu Campus), University of Uyo (Akwa Ibom), Afe Babalola University (Ado-Ekiti), Lagos State University, American University of Nigeria (Adamawa), University of Jos (Plateau), and Igbinedion University (Okada, Edo State).

The announcement was made during the opening ceremony held on Wednesday in Niger State, where dignitaries from the ECOWAS Court and representatives from the participating universities gathered to inaugurate the event.

Speaking at the event, the President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, Justice Ricardo Goncalves, outlined the core objectives of the competition: enhancing awareness of the Court’s roles and contributions, equipping students with legal research and advocacy skills, promoting the Court’s visibility in member states, and fostering cross-border legal collaboration.

“This competition serves as a platform for grooming the next generation of legal minds while advancing the Court’s mission to uphold human rights and resolve disputes across the region,” said Goncalves. “The eight teams were selected from 13 participating universities after a rigorous memorial submission phase. We aim to include more universities from across all ECOWAS countries in future editions.”

Goncalves emphasized the Court’s broader impact, noting its pivotal role in interpreting community laws, resolving interstate disputes, and delivering landmark judgments that have protected freedoms and influenced national policies across the region.

The Chief Registrar of the Court, Dr. Yaouza Ouro-Sama, elaborated on the format and significance of the competition.

“Participants simulate real legal proceedings by preparing written briefs and presenting arguments in a courtroom setting,” he explained. “This is not merely a debate contest — it is an immersive exercise in persuasive advocacy, critical thinking, and legal analysis.”

He encouraged the students to take full advantage of the experience, calling it an invaluable opportunity to develop professional skills, build networks, and gain a deeper understanding of regional justice systems.

“Through programs like this, we build a community of young legal professionals committed to justice, integration, and the rule of law in West Africa,” Ouro-Sama concluded.