For young graduates across West Africa hoping to gain international-level professional experience, a golden door has just opened. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially launched its 2026 Immersion Internship Program, a one-year opportunity designed to give fresh graduates hands-on exposure inside ECOWAS institutions.
This program isn’t just about learning—it’s about integration. Graduates will get the chance to understand ECOWAS programs from the inside, while also bringing their own ideas and energy to the table.
What the Internship Program Offers
The ECOWAS Immersion Internship is built with a clear goal: to support the professional development of young people by providing a structured entry into the working world of regional governance.
Interns will be placed in different ECOWAS institutions, departments, agencies, or resident representations, where they will participate directly in ongoing projects.
At the end of the program, each intern is required to produce a detailed report reflecting their contributions and learning outcomes.
This 12-month program is non-renewable, but the exposure, skills, and connections gained are designed to set graduates on a strong career path.
Who Can Apply
Not everyone is eligible for this prestigious program. To be considered, applicants must:
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Be a young graduate from one of the ECOWAS Member States.
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Be 32 years old or younger.
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Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree (BSc), Master’s, PhD, or an equivalent qualification.
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Be available full time throughout the internship period.
This ensures the program remains targeted at fresh graduates ready to step into the professional world.
The Benefits of Joining
The program isn’t just about observing—it’s about full participation. Interns will:
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Spend up to one year working within ECOWAS institutions.
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Get assigned to departments or agencies based on program needs.
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Contribute directly to meaningful projects.
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Build valuable networks across West Africa.
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Gain practical experience that can strengthen their career path.
While the program requires physical participation, there’s also provision for online involvement in specific feedback or information meetings for those not based in Abuja.
Documents You’ll Need
Applicants must be prepared to submit a set of documents to be considered for selection:
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A formal request addressed to the ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs. This letter should clearly state your motivation, areas of interest, desired placement, and a commitment to follow program rules.
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A Curriculum Vitae (CV) in PDF format.
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A copy of your national ID card or passport (PDF or JPEG).
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Copies of your academic certificates or equivalent qualifications (PDF).
Note: Candidates can only apply for a maximum of two positions.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official ECOWAS portal.
Each year, the available positions are defined by ECOWAS departments and host structures before the program begins, so applicants can match their profiles to the needs expressed.
For 2026, a total of 80 positions are available
A Technical Selection Committee will review all applications, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the process.
Important Dates
The deadline for applications is September 21, 2025.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to secure consideration.
Why This Matters
ECOWAS, also known as CEDEAO in French, is a regional union of 15 countries across West Africa, covering over 5.1 million square kilometres with a population of more than 349 million people.
For graduates, this program offers not just professional exposure but also the chance to contribute to regional development and integration across borders.