Tinubu takes over yearly rotational Ecowas chairmanship from Guinean president

The Nigerian leader was elected during the organisation’s 63rd Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community in Bissau.

Ahmed Oluwasanjo • July 9, 2023

President Bola Tinubu [Photo: Twitter OfficialABAT]

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday became the new chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The Nigerian leader was elected during the organisation’s 63rd Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community in Bissau, the capital of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau. He took over from Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embaló in line with the organisation’s annual leadership election arrangement.

Mr Tinubu will lead ECOWAS 15-country body in addressing issues bordering on regional stability, economic development and bilateral relations.

A statement from ECOWAS also said Mr Tinubu will collaborate closely with member states, regional institutions, and international partners to implement initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth, regional trade integration, and social development.

Mr Tinubu is expected to use his leadership to foster institutional reforms on enhanced financial management and internal control of the regional body.

ECOWAS was established on May 28, 1975, with the signing of the Treaty of Lagos, with its stated mission to promote economic integration across the region. A revised version of the treaty was agreed on and signed on July 24, 1993, in Cotonou.

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