New era for ECOWAS as Maada Bio takes over chairmanship from Tinubu

By Kunle Sanni –

Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio, has been elected the new Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Authority of Heads of State and Government, succeeding Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu.

President Tinubu formally handed over leadership to President Bio during the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority, held in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

Earlier speculation had pointed to Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye as the likely successor following a closed-door meeting. However, Bio emerged as the consensus choice of regional leaders.

In his acceptance speech, President Bio outlined four key priorities: restoring constitutional order, strengthening regional security cooperation, promoting economic integration, and enhancing the credibility of ECOWAS institutions.

Tinubu was first elected ECOWAS Chairman on July 9, 2023, in Guinea-Bissau, and was re-elected a year later in Abuja to ensure continuity in the bloc’s efforts toward peace and stability.

Reflecting on his tenure, Tinubu expressed appreciation to fellow West African leaders for their confidence and support throughout his leadership.

He reaffirmed his belief in the region’s potential, stating that ECOWAS could attain greater peace, stability, and prosperity through continued cooperation among member states.

“As we look to the future of West Africa, I remain confident that ECOWAS will reach greater heights in our collective pursuit of peace, security, and prosperity,” Tinubu said.