Liberia Wins Bid to Host ECOWAS Youth & Sports Development Centre

Monrovia, Liberia: The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, proudly announces that Liberia has officially won the bid to host the ECOWAS Youth & Sports Development Centre (EYSDC), a key regional institution under the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

This major win follows a competitive selection process by the ECOWAS Commission, prompted by the recent relocation of several regional offices due to some member states exiting the bloc.

Foreign Minister H.E. Sara Beysolow Nyanti celebrated the announcement, calling it a “historic moment” for Liberia.

Foreign Minister H.E. Sara Beysolow Nyanti

“We are honored to be entrusted with hosting the EYSDC. This reflects our commitment to regional unity and empowering West African youth,” she said.

The minister credited President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., for playing a key role in securing the bid, noting his strong support and direct involvement during the evaluation process.

She also applauded:

• Dr. Ibrahim Nyei, Deputy Minister for International Cooperation, for leading the strategic efforts behind the bid.

• Cllr. Cole Bangalu, Minister of Youth and Sports, for aligning Liberia’s proposal with the center’s core mission.

• Mr. Morley Kamara, Economic Advisor to the President, for integrating the bid with Liberia’s economic diplomacy goals.

• The General Services Agency (GSA), for ensuring smooth coordination and logistics.

• Senator Edwin Snowe, for his early advocacy in pushing Liberia to compete for a regional institution.

Liberia initially expressed interest in three of the four ECOWAS institutions being relocated. Final selections include

• Côte d’Ivoire—West Africa Health Organization (WAHO)

• Guinea—Water Resources Coordination Centre (WRCC)

• Guinea-Bissau – Regional Animal Health Centre (RAHC)

• Liberia—ECOWAS Youth & Sports Development Centre (EYSDC)

Hosting the EYSDC marks a huge diplomatic achievement for Liberia and will bring long-term benefits in youth development, education, job creation, sports diplomacy, and regional visibility.

The government pledges to ensure a smooth transition and calls on partners and stakeholders to support the next phase. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains committed to repositioning Liberia as a leader in regional cooperation and youth empowerment.