Abuja, Nigeria – March 23, 2025 – Outgoing Liberian Ambassador to Nigeria and Permanent Representative to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Dr. AI-Hassan Conteh, paid a farewell courtesy visit to ECOWAS President, His Excellency Dr. Oumar Alieu Touray, on March 21, 2025, at the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja. The meeting marked the conclusion of Ambassador Conteh’s distinguished diplomatic service in the region and allowed both leaders to reflect on their collaborative efforts.
During the meeting, Ambassador Conteh expressed his gratitude to Dr. Touray, ECOWAS officials, staff, and fellow ambassadors for their unwavering support, cooperation, and camaraderie. He highlighted the positive professional and personal relationships fostered during his tenure and acknowledged the challenges facing the region, particularly the departure of some member states. However, he expressed optimism for their potential return, emphasizing the importance of maintaining open dialogue. Ambassador Conteh conveyed warm greetings from Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., and Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti.
Dr. Touray commended Ambassador Conteh for his exemplary leadership as Dean of the Permanent Representatives Committee and his extensive diplomatic experience. He acknowledged Ambassador Conteh’s mediatory role in fostering harmony among member states and congratulated him on his new appointment as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Liberia to the United States of America. Dr. Touray affirmed ECOWAS’s full support for Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, a decision already endorsed by the community.
Both leaders engaged in discussions on critical regional issues, including security challenges, trade and investment promotion, and climate change. They emphasized the pivotal role of ECOWAS in fostering peace, security, and economic integration, particularly in Liberia’s post-conflict recovery and development.
Ambassador Conteh reiterated Liberia’s commitment to strengthening its bond with ECOWAS, stating, and “It has been a true privilege I have witnessed firsthand, the dedication of the ECOWAS Commission in addressing the numerous challenges our region faces. Together, we have made strides in promoting democratic governance, strengthening regional security, and enhancing trade relations. I leave with a renewed commitment to ensuring that the bond between Liberia and ECOWAS remains stronger.”
Dr. Touray lauded Ambassador Conteh’s contributions to the ECOWAS mission, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong relationships with member states for regional stability and progress. He pledged continued collaboration with Ambassador Conteh’s successor to further enhance ECOWAS programs and initiatives.
Addressing the current political situation in the Liberian House of Representatives, Dr. Touray stressed the need for reconciliation and adherence to the rule of law. He assured that the ECOWAS Commission is closely monitoring the situation and will intervene in the coming weeks.
Ambassador Conteh, who served in Abuja for 16 years, urged continued support for ECOWAS initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development and stability in the West African region. His tenure witnessed significant advancements in Liberia’s relationship with ECOWAS, including partnerships focused on economic cooperation and peacekeeping efforts.
Ambassador Conteh was accompanied by Ambassador Robert Y. Lormia, II, Charge d’Affaires, a. i. at the Embassy of Liberia in Abuja, and Mr. Jerry Nyepan Nyepan, Minister Counselor for Press and Public Affairs.
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