President Bola Tinubu has been re-elected as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) during the 65th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Nigeria.
Upon accepting his re-election, President Tinubu appointed the President of Senegal to join in mediation efforts involving Burkina Faso, Niger, and Chad. He emphasized the need for member states to fulfill their financial commitments to the regional body to effectively address security challenges.
In his address at the session, President Tinubu stressed the importance of substantial financial resources to operationalize the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF) and combat issues such as terrorism, banditry, and violent extremism. With his one-year tenure as Chairman set to expire on July 9, he called on member states to honor their financial obligations to enable ECOWAS to meet the expectations and recommendations of its ministers of Defense and Finance.
He stated, “A peaceful and secure society is essential for achieving our potential. The operationalization of the ECOWAS Standby Force in combating terrorism requires not only strong political will but also substantial financial resources. We must meet the expectations and recommendations set forth by our ministers of Defense and Finance to counter insecurity and stabilize our region. Member states must commit extra resources for this stabilization.”
President Tinubu also highlighted the capabilities of the Nigeria National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC), noting that the Nigerian government has declared the NCTC a regional center to benefit all ECOWAS member states through capacity building and related opportunities. He invited heads of state to visit the center to assess its facilities and capabilities.
Moreover, President Tinubu urged ECOWAS member states to unite and develop innovative approaches to unlock the region’s economic potential and promote prosperity. He acknowledged the economic challenges hindering progress and emphasized the need for partnerships, investment, and infrastructure development.
Key Points
President Bola Tinubu re-elected as ECOWAS Chairman at the 65th Ordinary Session in Abuja.
Tinubu appointed the President of Senegal for mediation efforts with Burkina Faso, Niger, and Chad.Emphasized financial commitments from member states to combat security challenges and operationalize the ECOWAS Standby Force.
Highlighted the Nigeria National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC) as a regional asset.
Urged unity and innovative approaches to unlock economic potential in the region.
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