President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has been elected as the new Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The announcement was made during the 63rd Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS, held in Guinea-Bissau. President Tinubu succeeds President Umaro Embalo of Guinea-Bissau as the ECOWAS chair.
In his acceptance speech, President Tinubu expressed his commitment to democracy and emphasized its importance as the best form of government. He acknowledged the challenges that come with democracy but assured his dedication to upholding its principles. Tinubu highlighted the growing threats to peace and security in the sub-region, including terrorism and an emerging trend of military takeovers, which he deemed as urgent issues requiring collective action.
The Nigerian leader called for concerted efforts from all member states to address insecurity and terrorism, as they hinder progress and development in the region. Tinubu pledged to harmonize existing frameworks and mobilize resources to combat these challenges effectively under his leadership. He emphasized the need for a peaceful environment to achieve the goals of ECOWAS.
President Tinubu acknowledged the security architecture developed by ECOWAS and stressed the importance of utilizing these frameworks, including the Regional Plan of Action on the Fight against Terrorism 2020-2024 and the operationalization of the ECOWAS Standby Force on Fight Against Terrorism. He called for unity and collaboration among member states to counter the transboundary nature of terrorism effectively.
Furthermore, Tinubu expressed concern about the emerging trend of coup d’états in West Africa, condemning the violation of democratic principles. He urged ECOWAS to stand firm in defense of democracy and emphasized the significance of governance, freedom, and the rule of law. Tinubu called for a strong stance against military takeovers, highlighting the need to support and invest in national defense forces to protect the sovereignty of their respective nations.
President Tinubu’s election as the ECOWAS Chairman marks his entry into the exclusive group of West African Heads of State. His leadership is expected to focus on promoting democracy, enhancing regional security, and fostering cooperation among member states.
