In a landmark initiative marking its 50th anniversary, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) presented the inaugural ECOWAS Award of Excellence for Journalists in Banjul. The ceremony honoured twelve outstanding media professionals from across the region whose work embodies ECOWAS Vision 2050 priorities—promoting peace, democracy, regional integration, and ethical public service journalism .
Hosted at the Coco Ocean Resort and organised by the ECOWAS Commission’s Directorate of Communications, the awards recognised excellence across four media categories: Print, Radio, Television, and Online. Over 200 entries were submitted from the 15 ECOWAS member states, evaluated by a seven-member independent jury chaired by media expert Abdoulie Gassama .
In her keynote welcome, Miatta Lily French, ECOWAS Resident Representative to The Gambia, praised the journalists for their courage, originality, and meaningful reporting in difficult environments. “A free, responsible, and ethical press is… a cornerstone of peace, stability, and inclusive development in our region,” she stated .
Representing ECOWAS Commission President Dr Omar Alieu Touray, Director of Cabinet Hon. Abdoul Kolley underscored the role of media as agents of regional governance and accountability central to ECOWAS’ broader 4×4 strategic objectives .
At the ceremony, each category celebrated a winner along with first and second runners-up. Notably, Gambian journalist Sankulleh Janko clinched the Radio award for a compelling report on the aftermath of the 2022 floods and the impact of ECOWAS humanitarian support—bringing pride to the host nation . Winners in other categories included standout contributions from journalists across Nigeria, Benin, Senegal, Togo, Guinea‑Bissau and The Gambia, with Nigeria capturing five of the twelve awards .
Government officials, civil society actors, diplomats, and media stakeholders—along with partners such as GIZ—attended the ceremony, which featured cultural performances and a symbolic signature pledge to uphold media ethics and regional solidarity .
The ECOWAS Award of Excellence for Journalists is intended to become an annual legacy event—reinforcing press freedom, informing citizens, and elevating regional integration through principled storytelling.
By Janet Jalloh
