By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially handed over the leadership of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone.
The handover ceremony took place at the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, held in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
President Tinubu, who was first elected as ECOWAS Chairman in July 2023 in Guinea-Bissau and re-elected in 2024, led the regional bloc during a period marked by critical efforts to enhance regional security, restore democratic governance in member states, and drive economic development.
In his acceptance speech, President Bio outlined four key priority areas for his tenure: restoring constitutional order and deepening democracy, revitalising regional security cooperation, unlocking economic integration, and building institutional credibility across the region.
The transition marks a new phase for ECOWAS as it continues to address complex challenges including political instability, insecurity, and economic hardship affecting several member countries.
The summit brought together leaders from across West Africa to deliberate on pressing regional issues and reaffirm their commitment to ECOWAS’ core principles of unity, peace, and sustainable development.
President Tinubu expressed confidence in President Bio’s ability to lead the bloc effectively and pledged Nigeria’s continued support for ECOWAS initiatives.
More details shortly as the events unfolds.
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