Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio on Sunday took over as the new chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), promising to operate on a four pillar including the deepening of the region’s democracy and an overhaul of security following rising violence, member departures, and other disturbances.
“We are still confronting insecurity in the Sahel and coastal states, terrorism, political instability, illicit arms flow and transnational organized crimes continue to test the resilience of our nations and the effectiveness of our institutions,” Bio said after taking over from President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria.
The Sierra Leonian leader said that as chairman of ECOWAS, he will prioritize four key areas, democracy, security cooperation, economic integration and institutional credibility.
“We must engage transitional governments constructively and support member states in building stronger democratic institutions rooted in the rule of law.
“ As we gather here in June 2025, our region is at the crossroads. The West Africa we live today is facing serious challenges, some long standing others, view and evolving. We are still confronting insecurity in the Sahel and coastal states, terrorism, political instability, illicit arms flow and transnational organized crimes continue to test the resilience of our nations and the effectiveness of our institutions.
“The democratic space is under strain in parts of our region, the constitutional order has been disrupted yet across West Africa, citizens, especially our youth, are demanding not just elections, but accountability, transparency and a fair stake in national life.
“Economically. Our region is recovering from external shocks, including global inflation, food insecurity, energy constraints and debt vulnerabilities. These and many others continue to challenge us, the effect of climate change, coastal erosion, floods, drought and no longer distant threats.
“They are disrupting livelihoods today and demanding both adaptation strategies and sustainable investment. But there is also great promise our vibrant and youthful population, abundant natural resources and entrepreneurial spirit remains our strongest asset,” Bio stressed.
President Bio is currently serving his second term after a contested election two years ago, and was President when ECOWAS imposed sanctions on Niger following a coup two years ago, reasons, for their leaving the regional bloc.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu, expressed confidence in the region’s continued path toward peace, stability, and prosperity under the new chairman.
President Tinubu described it as a profound honour and privilege to have led the esteemed body, adding that he remained deeply humbled by the trust and support extended to him throughout his two-term tenure.
“As I now hand over the mantle of leadership to my great friend and dear brother, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, the new Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, I do so with a deep sense of fulfilment and optimism for the future of West Africa.
“I remain confident that with the continued cooperation of all its members, ECOWAS will scale greater heights in our collective pursuit of peace, security, stability, and prosperity for our people and our region,” Tinubu said.
Reflecting on his tenure, President Tinubu noted the complex political and security challenges the region has faced in recent years while calling on leaders to remain committed to the evolving needs of West African citizens.
“Let us deepen cooperation, uphold diplomatic principles, and foster inclusive growth that leaves no one behind—especially our youth, women, and vulnerable populations, who remain central to the future of our region,” he said.
President Tinubu emphasised the need to preserve democratic values and ensure that political stability is not separated from economic development.
“Our organisation must continue to strike a fine balance between its core regional mandate of economic integration and the complex political, security, and governance challenges, including the preservation of democratic values in our region.
“Economic integration cannot be superimposed on an untenable political environment. That is why we must remain steadfast in our resolve to rise to these emerging challenges,” President Tinubu declared.
President Tinubu also commended the ECOWAS Commission, community institutions, and technical staff for their dedication and professionalism in supporting the Authority’s work and organising a successful summit.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the region’s shared mission and urged continued unity among member states.
“As you return to your respective countries, let us remain resolute in our shared mission to deepen our integration, protect our people, and build a prosperous, secure, and united West Africa,” he said.
