Abuja, June 23, 2025 – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially handed over the chairmanship of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, marking the end of his tenure at the helm of the regional bloc.
The symbolic transition took place during the 67th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government, held in Abuja. The summit brought together West African leaders to review pressing regional challenges, including political instability, economic integration, security threats, and development cooperation.
In his handover speech, President Tinubu reflected on the milestones achieved during his stewardship, including efforts to strengthen democratic governance, deepen regional cooperation, and promote peace and stability across the subregion. He expressed confidence in President Bio’s leadership, stating that the regional body would continue to thrive under his guidance.
President Bio, while accepting the mantle of leadership, pledged to build on the gains of his predecessor and intensify efforts to tackle shared challenges facing West Africa. He emphasized the need for unity, economic resilience, and stronger responses to unconstitutional changes of government and violent extremism.
The summit also served as a platform for member states to reaffirm their commitment to the ECOWAS vision of a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated West Africa, with renewed pledges to bolster democratic institutions and foster sustainable development across the region.
The leadership transition signals continuity in ECOWAS’ mission, as the regional bloc faces increasing calls to act decisively on political and economic issues affecting its member states.
