President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to emerge as the next chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The announcement comes ahead of the 63rd ordinary session of the authority of heads of state and government, scheduled to take place in the capital city of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, Bissau.
Diplomatic sources have revealed to Adulawonews that President Tinubu will take over the position from President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau, marking a significant milestone for Nigeria and the entire ECOWAS region. This appointment is a testament to President Tinubu’s growing influence and leadership in the international arena, particularly in the realm of regional politics and economics.
President Tinubu’s departure from Abuja is scheduled for Saturday, allowing him to arrive in Bissau in time for the Sunday meeting of heads of state. It will be President Tinubu’s first international outing on the African continent since assuming office in May 2023, following his successful election as the Nigerian president.
Notably, former President Muhammadu Buhari previously held the prestigious position of ECOWAS chairman in 2018, showcasing Nigeria’s continued commitment to regional cooperation and integration.
The ECOWAS summit is expected to address several critical issues affecting the sub-region, as outlined in the memoranda to be discussed during the meeting. Key agenda items include a report on the security challenges faced by member countries, based on the 50th ordinary session of the mediation and security council. Additionally, the financial situation of the body, the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and the status of transition in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea will be assessed.
The Economic Community of West African States was established in 1975 and currently comprises 15 member states with a combined population of 387 million and a nominal GDP of $816 billion. These member states include Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo