Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Job Vacancy
Position: Secretary General
- Job Code: 20003163
- Location: Abuja, Nigeria
- Institution: ECOWAS Commission
- Grade: D2
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Reports to: President of ECOWAS Commission
- Supervises: Office Manager
Organizational Overview
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a coalition of fifteen West African nations committed to fostering economic unity and cooperation within the region. Established on May 28, 1975, through the Treaty of Lagos, ECOWAS aims to facilitate economic integration and sustainable development across its member states.
Role Overview
The Secretary General serves as the principal advisor to the President of the ECOWAS Commission on administrative and procedural affairs. The role entails assisting the President in overseeing the operations of Community Institutions and serving as the Secretary to ECOWAS policy organs, including the Council of Ministers and the Authority of Heads of State and Government. Additionally, the Secretary General is responsible for ensuring that institutional decisions, policies, and regulations are effectively implemented and adhered to, while upholding ethical standards and compliance with relevant Community guidelines.
Key Responsibilities
As the Head of the Administrative Secretariat of the Commission, the Secretary General will undertake the following functions under the direction of the President:
- Provide strategic guidance on institutional policies, governance procedures, and regulatory compliance.
- Act as a custodian of ECOWAS community texts, ensuring adherence to established rules and regulations.
- Oversee the planning, management, and coordination of statutory and management meetings, ensuring effective service delivery to ECOWAS Policy Organs.
- Supervise the preparation, documentation, and timely distribution of meeting materials, reports, and decisions to relevant stakeholders.
- Monitor and facilitate the implementation of resolutions and decisions made by the Community Policy Organs.
- Ensure institutional continuity during leadership transitions and serve as the primary repository of ECOWAS institutional knowledge.
- Establish efficient communication channels between the President and other members of the Commission, institutions, and member states.
- Foster interdepartmental collaboration to ensure a coherent and effective execution of ECOWAS decisions.
- Manage a centralized documentation databank to ensure secure storage and accessibility of critical policy and regulatory documents.
- Uphold ethical standards, ensuring compliance with ECOWAS governance principles and regulations.
- Perform any additional duties as assigned by the President.
Qualifications and Experience
- A Master’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized university in relevant disciplines such as International Relations, Political Science, Law, Diplomacy, Public Administration, or related fields.
- A minimum of fifteen (15) years of progressively responsible experience in international relations, political affairs, law, or business management, with at least seven (7) years specifically dealing with ECOWAS-related matters.
- Extensive experience engaging with member states and international organizations in decision-making processes.
- Proven expertise in policy formulation, strategic planning, and change management.
- Strong leadership capabilities, including experience managing large, diverse teams and overseeing complex reporting structures.
- In-depth knowledge of ECOWAS policies, administrative procedures, and governance frameworks.
- Demonstrated experience in negotiation, stakeholder management, and intergovernmental cooperation.
Key Competencies
- Commitment to ethical leadership, accountability, and the principles of good governance.
- Ability to inspire, engage, and lead effectively in dynamic and challenging environments.
- Strong diplomatic skills, political acumen, and ability to influence policy decisions.
- Capacity to foster collaboration between various institutions, agencies, and stakeholders.
- Cultural sensitivity and an appreciation for diversity within the West African region.
- Proficiency in conflict resolution, negotiation, and high-level decision-making.
- Effective communication skills, including the ability to articulate complex policy matters clearly and persuasively.
- Strong organizational and strategic planning abilities to align institutional goals with ECOWAS’ vision and mandate.
- Proficiency in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
- Fluency in one of the three official ECOWAS languages (English, French, or Portuguese); knowledge of additional languages will be an asset.
Age Requirement
Applicants must be below 50 years of age. However, this restriction does not apply to current ECOWAS staff members.
Selection Process
Qualified candidates will undergo a comprehensive assessment, which may include a written examination and a competency-based interview.
Salary and Benefits
- Annual Salary: UA 90,555.55 (equivalent to USD 142,878.54)
Application Deadline
- Closing Date: April 21, 2025
Application Process
Interested and qualified candidates should submit their applications to b52secretarygeneral@ecowas.int with the job title as the subject of the email.
