The Federal Government has invited qualified Nigerians to apply for the country’s statutory position as a judge at the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice for the 2026–2030 term.
In a statement released on Friday in Abuja, the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the recruitment is aimed at filling Nigeria’s slot at the regional court, which is headquartered in the nation’s capital.
According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, interested and qualified Nigerians are encouraged to submit applications for the position, which will be appointed by the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Ebienfa explained that the court serves as the principal judicial arm of ECOWAS and is responsible for ensuring compliance with the law in the interpretation and application of the ECOWAS Treaty, as well as related protocols and legal instruments of the community.
He noted that judges of the court adjudicate disputes within its jurisdiction, including issues related to the interpretation and application of ECOWAS laws, the legality of community actions, disputes involving ECOWAS institutions and officials, and cases involving alleged human rights violations.
“The judge contributes to the development of Community jurisprudence and promotes the rule of law, justice, and regional integration within the ECOWAS Community,” the statement said.
The ministry stated that applicants must be qualified for appointment to a judicial position at the Supreme Court or a similar court, or hold a Master of Laws degree specializing in international law, community law, integration law, or related disciplines from a recognized university.
Candidates must also possess at least 20 years of professional experience either as a judge in a relevant field or as a lawyer, legal counsel, or academic with recognized expertise in international law, particularly community or regional integration law.
Additional requirements include proven integrity, professionalism, strong organizational and communication abilities, and the capacity to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
According to the ministry, successful candidates will undergo an assessment process in line with the internal regulations of the ECOWAS Commission, while shortlisted applicants will be screened by the ECOWAS Ministerial Screening Committee.
Judges of the court serve a single, non-renewable term of four years.
Interested applicants are required to submit their curriculum vitae and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience, skills, and competencies via email to ecowasnationalunit2@gmail.com and info@nigeriaecowasmission.ng.
Hard copies may also be submitted to the ECOWAS National Unit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Central Business District, Abuja, or to the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja.
The ministry said applications must be submitted on or before March 20, 2026.