CHINESE Government has handed the keys of the new Headquarters of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to its President, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray.

 The symbolic key to the gigantic structure along Abuja Airport Road, was officially presented to the commission by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai.

 Built under three years at the cost of $56.5 million, the modern office complex comprises a central wing of a ground floor and nine upper floors, flanked by the east and the west wings, each consisting of a ground floor and seven upper floors.

  It also holds office accommodation for all ECOWAS Commission’s personnel, and designated project staff.

  The offices are fully equipped with meeting rooms on each floor, with a seating capacity of about 20 persons and fitted with interpretation systems. On the ground floor are, clinic, gym, banking facilities, shops, restaurants, observatory, several rooms, daycare centre for nursing mothers and exhibition spaces.

 There is also a two-storey conference centre with a seating capacity of 800 persons and fully equipped with interpretation systems, audiovisual facilities, press briefing rooms, meeting rooms and training facilities. The complex has a parking facility for about 700 vehicles.

  In his remarks, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, said China has consistently prioritized its relationship with Africa, remaining steadfast and reliable in the continent’s pursuit of development and national rejuvenation since the past 70 years of diplomatic relations.

 “Throughout these seven decades, China supports African nations in exploring modernization paths tailored to their unique national conditions and advocates for a stronger African voice in international affairs. Our cooperation is built on the principles of non-interference.

 The Envoy emphasized that there are no political strings attached to Chinese support to Africa and Nigeria.

 “We remain committed to a demand-driven approach that respects African autonomy and sovereignty, translating our support into tangible actions for Africa’s revitalization.

 Ambassador Dunhai listed the ‘10 Partnership Actions’ for China and Africa to jointly advance modernization earlier proposed by the country’s President, Xi Jinping; the launched Initiative on Cooperation Supporting Modernization in Africa and recent announcement of 100 per cent zero-tariff treatment to all African countries having diplomatic ties with China, stressing that the initiatives were testaments to the continuity and evolution of China’s Africa policy.

 “They underscore our firm resolve to march hand-in-hand with our African brothers and sisters, opening new horizons for Africa’s prosperity and our shared dream of modernization.

  As Africa’s preeminent regional organization, ECOWAS is a vital engine for West African integration, regional peace and coordinated development. We deeply appreciate the long-standing commitment of ECOWAS and its member states to the One-China principle and the invaluable support provided in the United Nations and other multilateral fora.”

 Noting that the world is living through a period of unprecedented global transformation characterized by turbulence and the rising threat of unilateralism where the “might makes right”, he expressed worries that mentality is fast eroding the UN-centered international system and the rule of international law.

 He therefore called on the developing nations and the Global South to remain united and self-reliant.

 “We must collectively oppose a return to the “law of the jungle”, champion true multilateralism and strive for an equal and orderly multi-polar world and an inclusive economic globalization, and build a community with a shared future for mankind.”

 He added that the successful delivery of the project is a fruit of the strong partnership with the Nigerian Government. As the host of ECOWAS and a regional leader, Nigeria’s efforts in fostering stability and unity have been exemplary.

 In his remarks, President, ECOWAS Commission, Omar Alieu Touray, announcing that the formal inauguration and commissioning of the landmark complex will take place at a later date, commended the government and people of China for the aid.

 He recalled it was not the first time China has partnered with ECOWAS in advancing regional integration, having supported peace and security architecture through the provision of strategic equipment and vehicles to enhance the operational readiness of ECOWAS staff and workforce.

 “This headquarter building stands as a milestone – it is China’s flagship aid project for ECOWAS and another headquarter for an international organization, following the African Union Conference Center and office complex.

  “Affectionately known as the ‘Eye of West Africa’, this magnificent structure harmonizes the excellence of Chinese architectural technique with the unique culture of West Africa, establishing a new landmark for the city of Abuja.

 “As a modern, intelligent and multi-functional complex, it will substantially enhance the operational capacity of the ECOWAS Commission and provide a robust foundation for member states to chart the future of regional development”, Touray said.