The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has a new chairman, as Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has accepted the honour of chairing the ECOWAS Authority.
The transition ceremony took place during the 67th ordinary session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
President Bola Tinubu, the outgoing Chairman, reflected on his tenure, highlighting key achievements and challenges.
“We’ve made significant progress in regional integration, economic recovery, and peacebuilding,” he said. “I’m confident that my successor will build on this foundation and take ECOWAS to the next level.”
The President of Sierra Leone, the new Chairman, outlined his priorities for his tenure.
“As Chair, I will prioritize four key areas: restoring constitutional order and deepening democracy, revitalizing regional security cooperation, unlocking economic integration, and building institutional credibility,” he said. “I believe West Africa’s future is not one of decline, but of possibility if we act with courage, urgency, unity, and moral clarity.”
President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray welcomed the new Chairman and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting the region’s integration agenda.
“We look forward to working closely with the new Chairman to address the region’s challenges and opportunities,” he said.
The ECOWAS region faces several challenges, including insecurity, terrorism, political instability, and economic vulnerabilities.
The new Chairman has pledged to address these challenges through a proactive and supportive approach for member states.
Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie
