ECOWAS Prepares for Leadership Transition as Tinubu’s Term Nears End

President Bola Tinubu is set to conclude his tenure as Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), as the regional bloc prepares to appoint a new leader.

Tinubu, who was first elected ECOWAS Chairman on July 9, 2023, in Guinea-Bissau, and re-elected for a second term on July 7, 2024, in Abuja, will formally step down during this weekend’s summit at the Presidential Villa’s Banquet Hall in Abuja.

Speaking at the close of the 94th Ordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers on Friday night, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, hinted at the imminent leadership transition.

“Let me sincerely thank each of you for your cooperation and support over the past two years, during my tenure as Chair of this Council,” Tuggar said.

Referring to the summit agenda, which includes the election of a new Chair of the Authority, Tuggar noted that this may be his final session in his current role.

He commended fellow ministers for their collaboration and expressed hope that the same spirit of unity would continue under the new leadership.

“I have greatly valued the cordial working relationships we’ve shared and the progress we’ve made together. I trust you will extend the same unwavering support to whoever assumes this role next,” he added.