New Judges Sworn in at ECOWAS Court

The Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has welcomed four new judges. They were sworn into office for a four-year term by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal. The ceremony took place in Abuja, Nigeria on 6 October 2026.

The new judges took their oath of office according to the Court's rules. They promised to carry out their duties with independence, fairness, and integrity.

In his speech, President Faye urged the new judges to remember their oath when making decisions. He said the Court's reputation relies on its decisions and the trust it builds. He encouraged them to help improve and modernize the Court, making justice effective, accessible, and focused on people.

President Faye also pointed out the Court's important role during these tough times. The region is facing serious political, economic, security, and environmental challenges that need collective action and respect for the law. He stressed the Court's duty to enforce treaties and protect rights.

He asked the judges to maintain high standards of independence and fairness. He urged them to help build public trust in the regional judicial system. He also expressed gratitude to the outgoing judges for their contributions to justice and human rights in the region.

Hon Justice Mouhamadou Mansour Mbaye, who is the Chairman of the ECOWAS Judicial Council and the first President of the Supreme Court of Senegal, congratulated the new judges. He reminded them of the significant responsibility they have to serve the law with independence, fairness, integrity, and bravery.

He said, "The independence of the judge is not a privilege for the judge but a fundamental guarantee owed to the litigant. In this regard, your independence must be constant, your impartiality beyond question, and your integrity beyond reproach."

Justice Mbaye called the ceremony a significant moment that shows renewed confidence in the judges chosen through a strict process. He acknowledged the Court's role in building a genuine legal system in West Africa.

Earlier, H.E. General Birame Diop, President of the ECOWAS Commission, praised the outgoing judges for their service. He highlighted the importance of the oath and urged the new judges to fulfill their responsibilities.

He said, "Beyond the formalities, it is a solemn commitment to perform one’s duties with integrity, impartiality, and conscientiousness. This commitment is made not only to the Chair of Authority of States and government but also to every citizen of the Community."

President Diop promised that the Commission would support the Court in its work. He called for more cooperation among ECOWAS institutions, including Member States and national courts. He urged the new judges to follow their oath and prioritize the Community and its people over personal interests.

The new judges are Hon Justice Désiré Henri AIHOU from Bénin, Hon Justice Awa BAH from The Gambia, Hon Justice Charlyne M. BRUMSKINE from Liberia, Hon Justice Henrietta Uzoamaka DIDIGU from Nigeria, and Hon Justice Yaouza OURO-SAMA from Togo. They replace five judges who have completed their terms at the Court.

The ceremony was attended by top officials from ECOWAS Member States, members of the diplomatic corps, judicial authorities, legal practitioners, the press, and other notable guests.