Oluwatosin Enesi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially handed over the chairmanship of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Authority of Heads of State and Government to President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone.
The leadership transition took place at the closing of the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority in Abuja on Sunday.
In his remarks, President Tinubu described his tenure as a “profound honour,” expressing optimism about the region’s future and confidence in his successor’s leadership.
“As I now hand over the mantle of leadership to my great friend and brother… I do so with a deep sense of fulfillment and optimism for the future of West Africa,” Tinubu said.
He urged ECOWAS leaders to remain committed to peace, democracy, and regional integration, while confronting pressing challenges including political instability and security threats.
“Economic integration cannot be superimposed on an untenable political environment,” he cautioned, emphasizing the importance of good governance and inclusive growth, especially for youth, women, and vulnerable groups.
Tinubu also praised the ECOWAS Commission and support staff for their dedication and professionalism.
In his acceptance speech, President Julius Maada Bio laid out four core priorities for his tenure:
Restoring constitutional order and deepening democracy
Strengthening regional security cooperation
Advancing economic integration
Reforming ECOWAS institutions for greater efficiency and transparency
“We must engage transitional governments constructively… and overhaul our collective security architecture,” Bio stated.
He called for revitalised trade, infrastructure, and job creation initiatives, particularly targeting women and youth, and acknowledged the rising demand across the region for democratic accountability.
President Bio highlighted the urgency of addressing terrorism, illicit arms flows, and political instability, particularly in the Sahel and coastal states. He credited President Tinubu with laying a strong foundation of dialogue and recovery.
“West Africa stands at a crossroads,” he noted. “Yet, citizens, especially our youth, are demanding not just elections, but also transparency and a fair stake in national life.”
Both leaders underscored the need for collective action and sustained unity to secure peace, prosperity, and stability in the region.
Our Reporter
