Tinubu Hands Over ECOWAS Leadership, Urges West African Unity as Bio Charts New Course

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially handed over leadership of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to his Sierra Leonean counterpart, Julius Maada Bio, with a strong appeal for sustained unity, democratic values, and inclusive growth in the sub-region.

The symbolic handover took place at the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government held in Abuja on Sunday, where Tinubu concluded his one-year tenure as Chairman.

Reflecting on his time at the helm, Tinubu described the opportunity to lead as “a profound honour,” and said the period had tested the resilience and solidarity of the region.

“As I now hand over the mantle of leadership to my great friend and dear brother, President Julius Maada Bio, I do so with a deep sense of fulfilment and optimism for the future of West Africa,” he said.

Tinubu, who assumed office as ECOWAS Chairman in July 2023, acknowledged the growing political and security threats in the region, including recent coups and the activities of terror groups. He stressed the need for leaders to prioritize the real concerns of citizens, especially young people, women, and other vulnerable groups.

“Let us deepen cooperation, uphold diplomatic principles, and foster inclusive growth that leaves no one behind,” he said. “Democracy and development must go hand in hand.”

The Nigerian leader urged the sub-regional body to maintain a delicate balance between economic integration and the preservation of democratic governance.

“Economic progress cannot thrive in an unstable political environment. We must be unwavering in our commitment to face these challenges together,” he said.

As Tinubu stepped aside, President Bio laid out an ambitious agenda to reposition ECOWAS as a more effective and people-focused organisation. He outlined four key areas: restoring constitutional order, boosting security collaboration, enhancing economic integration, and improving institutional transparency.

“We must overhaul our collective security systems—from better intelligence to faster joint response—to face evolving threats as one united force,” Bio stated.

He pledged to pursue deeper engagement with member states and transitional governments to rebuild democratic institutions and restore confidence in governance.

“In the face of multiple crises—terrorism, political instability, illicit arms, and transnational crime—our citizens are demanding not just elections, but also transparency, accountability, and genuine inclusion,” he said.

President Bio also praised Tinubu for setting a “solid foundation of dialogue, recovery, and peacebuilding” and promised to build on the gains made during his predecessor’s tenure.

“I am humbled by the trust placed in me and grateful for your leadership and experience,” he told Tinubu.

As the new era begins under President Bio’s chairmanship, leaders left the summit with a renewed call for unity and determination to steer the West African bloc through its toughest challenges yet.

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