ECOWAS Court President Calls for Reform and Resilience at Conclusion of 17th Administrative and Budgetary Retreat

Nasarawa State, Nigeria – 7 June 2025 – The President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, Hon. Justice Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves, has called for institutional reform, stronger collaboration, and cultural transformation as the Court concluded its 17th Administrative and Budgetary Retreat.

Opening his address with a moment of silence for the late staff member, Mr. Víctor Golotó, the President commended participants for their dedication during a week focused on reviewing the 2025 budget implementation and shaping the 2026 financial outlook.

While acknowledging the impact of budget cuts, Justice Gonçalves urged staff to move beyond a culture of dependency. He emphasized that delays in delivering key activities were also due to internal inefficiencies, not just limited resources. He called for greater accountability, innovation, and cross-departmental cooperation. He noted that key initiatives awaiting implementation include: Publication of legal documents; development of internal policies; and establishment of a Legal Aid Fund. He enjoined the senior management to accelerate progress and improve coordination across departments.

Despite financial constraints, the President assured staff that all salaries and entitlements remain protected for 2025. He also addressed broader regional issues—such as the withdrawal of three ECOWAS member states—and their budgetary impact, while affirming the Court’s continued operational stability.

He highlighted the Electronic Case Management System as a strategic priority for improving access to justice and institutional efficiency.

In closing, he thanked all retreat contributors and encouraged staff to return to Abuja united and reinvigorated in their commitment to service. “We must build a stronger, more effective Court, ever at the service of justice in our Community,” he stated.

Vice-President Justice Sengu Mohamed Koroma also praised the commitment and performance of participants, noting their collective contribution to the retreat’s success.

The retreat brought together judges, senior officials, and administrative staff to reflect on performance and plan ahead amid evolving regional dynamics.