Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio has officially taken over as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, succeeding Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who concluded his tenure during the 67th Ordinary Session held in Abuja.
In his farewell speech, President Tinubu urged West African leaders to remain vigilant and responsive to the needs of youth, women, and vulnerable groups. He reflected on his time in office, highlighting challenges such as political instability, insecurity, and democratic backsliding. “Economic integration cannot thrive in a fragile political environment,” he said, emphasizing the need for urgent reforms and cooperation among member states.
President Bio, in his acceptance speech, acknowledged the weight of the responsibility and laid out a four-point agenda focused on restoring constitutional order, boosting regional security, deepening economic integration, and enhancing institutional credibility.
He warned of growing threats to democracy, rising insecurity, and socio-economic struggles but said the region’s future remains bright if leaders act with “courage, urgency, unity and moral clarity.”
The new ECOWAS chair takes office at a time of widespread regional instability, with high expectations for bold and people-focused leadership.
