Abuja: The ECOWAS Court of Justice has reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of women’s and girls’ rights across the West African sub-region through effective justice delivery. This pledge was made by the President of the Court, Justice Ricardo Gon§alves, during the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration, organized by the ECOWAS Court’s Women’s Forum in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event, celebrated annually on March 8, was themed ‘Break the Silence, End Gender-Based Violence Now.’ Justice Gon§alves emphasized the court’s dedication to delivering justice and advancing the rule of law to create a future where every woman and girl in the ECOWAS region can live in safety and dignity. The court plans to achieve this through judgments, outreach programs, and collaborations with member states and stakeholders.
Justice Gon§alves, represented by Mrs. Marie Saine, the Court’s Acting Deputy Chief Registrar, highlighted the court’s past strides in advancing the rule of law and protecting fundamental rights across West Africa. This year’s global theme, ‘Rights, Justice, Action For All Women and Girls,’ serves as a reminder of women’s vital role in the pursuit of justice and their strength within the court.
The court’s commitment is further reflected in its groundbreaking decisions, which have set important legal precedents, challenged discrimination, and provided remedies for victims of sexual and gender-based violence. These actions have contributed to regional human rights jurisprudence, influenced national policies, and triggered cultural and legal reforms.
Justice Dupe Atoki noted the importance of ensuring that discrimination and violence against women and girls are not tolerated. She emphasized that justice must be accessible, impartial, and responsive to the realities faced by women and girls.
Dr. Tony Ojukwu, Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, described the ECOWAS Court as the conscience of the subregional community. He called for collective action to ensure that violence against women is met with the full weight of the law.
Mrs. Oluwatosin Nguher, President of the ECOWAS Court Women’s Forum, echoed this sentiment, stressing that gender-based violence poses one of the most pervasive contemporary human rights challenges. She emphasized the need to move beyond recognition to responsibility and from discussion to decisive action to ensure rights are protected and justice is accessible across the region.