Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has distinguished itself on the regional stage by winning the first-ever ECOWAS Court of Justice Moot Court Competition, securing the top prize of ₦5 million in what observers have called a landmark event for legal education in West Africa.
The competition, hosted in Niger State, brought together eight top law faculties from across Nigeria in a dynamic display of advocacy, legal reasoning, and courtroom discipline. After a series of intense preliminary rounds, ABU’s law students delivered a commanding performance in the finals, showcasing clarity, persuasive argumentation, and procedural command that won over the judging panel.
University of Jos Claims Second Place
The University of Jos emerged as runner-up, earning a ₦3 million cash prize for its team’s articulate legal submissions and analytical depth. Their efforts earned high praise from both the judges and the audience, further highlighting the strength of legal education in Nigerian institutions.
ECOWAS Court President Commends Participants
Speaking at the grand finale, Justice Ricardo Gonçalves, President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, commended all the student participants for their exemplary performance and legal maturity.
“From the opening ceremony to the final argument, this competition has revealed the depth of legal talent and intellectual energy present in our universities,” Gonçalves said. “The oral and written advocacy we witnessed reflects a bright and promising future for the legal profession in West Africa.”
He emphasized that while ABU emerged victorious, every participant was a winner by virtue of the experience, exposure, and professional growth the event provided. “You have all honoured your institutions. What you’ve gained here will serve you far beyond this competition,” he added.
A New Tradition for Regional Legal Development
In a significant announcement, the ECOWAS Court president revealed that the Moot Court Competition will become an annual fixture, with plans to expand participation to universities across all ECOWAS member states.
“This is more than a competition; it is the beginning of a regional legal culture, one that fosters engagement with the principles of justice, human rights, and rule of law,” Gonçalves stated.
He also highlighted the broader vision behind the initiative: bringing the Court closer to the people and bridging the gap between legal institutions and the academic community.
“This event underscores the Court’s commitment to engage with young minds and future legal professionals. By fostering these relationships early, we are sowing the seeds for a more just, informed, and cooperative West Africa,” he said.
Legal Education as a Catalyst for Integration
The success of the inaugural Moot Court Competition is seen not only as a win for participating students and institutions but also as a symbolic step toward regional integration and capacity building. Legal educators and observers say the event offers a practical avenue for harmonising legal thinking across West African borders.
As plans are set in motion for the next edition, the ECOWAS Court aims to turn this initiative into a regional legal institution-building platform, deepening cross-border academic collaboration and inspiring the next generation of West African legal leaders.