Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has etched its name in history as the winner of the first-ever ECOWAS Court of Justice Moot Court Competition, held in Niger State. The institution’s Faculty of Law emerged tops after a fiercely contested battle of intellect and advocacy among eight participating universities, walking away with a grand prize of ₦5 million.
The prestigious competition, aimed at enhancing legal scholarship and deepening regional understanding of ECOWAS legal frameworks, drew participation from some of the finest law faculties across West Africa. Representing Nigeria, ABU demonstrated unmatched mastery in legal reasoning, courtroom advocacy, and articulation of complex regional legal issues—ultimately convincing the judges in a final session described as both intense and inspiring.
Coming in a close second was the University of Jos (UNIJOS), whose team put on a commendable performance marked by depth of analysis, persuasive arguments, and strong oratory skills. The UNIJOS team was awarded a cash prize of ₦3 million in recognition of their efforts.
The grand finale, which took place on Saturday, witnessed a remarkable gathering of legal minds, including senior judges, academics, and regional legal stakeholders. The President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, Hon. Justice Ricardo Gonçalves, who presided over the event, applauded all the participants for their exemplary conduct and intellectual rigour throughout the competition.
Justice Gonçalves, in his remarks, hailed the event as a turning point for legal education and youth engagement within the region. He praised the performance of all eight universities, stating that the quality of submissions—both written and oral—was a testament to the growing legal competence within ECOWAS member states. According to him, the initiative not only showcased the brilliance of the region’s future legal practitioners but also affirmed the role of academic institutions in advancing justice and human rights across borders.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all eight participating institutions,” he said. “Your commitment, energy, and intellectual drive have given honour to your universities. To the victorious team from Ahmadu Bello University—your win is well deserved. However, every student who stood to argue before us is a winner, for the knowledge gained, the skills sharpened, and the networks built during this journey will endure far beyond this courtroom.”
The ECOWAS Court president also used the occasion to announce that the Moot Court Competition, having recorded a successful debut, would now become a permanent feature on the court’s calendar. He revealed plans to expand participation in future editions to include law faculties from all ECOWAS member countries, further strengthening regional legal integration and cooperation.
“This is just the beginning,” Justice Gonçalves declared. “We have resolved to institutionalise this competition as an annual flagship programme of the Court. Future editions will be inclusive of universities across all ECOWAS states, ensuring wider representation and deeper regional impact. Through initiatives like this, the Court hopes to bring its functions closer to the people and to cultivate a new generation of legal minds grounded in the principles of justice, human rights, and the rule of law.”
Observers described the event as a landmark moment for legal education in the sub-region, with stakeholders calling for more platforms that encourage youth involvement in governance and judicial discourse.
With its victory, ABU Zaria not only earned national recognition but also positioned itself as a trailblazer in regional legal scholarship—setting a high bar for future participants and reaffirming its reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading academic institutions.
