President Bola Tinubu Emerges as ECOWAS Chairman: Addressing Insecurity and Promoting Regional Collaboration

President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria's leader, has emerged as the new chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) during the 63rd Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government held in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau.

A Solemn Pledge for an Inclusive Administration

In his first attendance at the 63rd Ordinary Session, President Tinubu was announced as the Chairman, taking the opportunity to solemnly pledge his commitment to responsibly fulfilling the duties of the office. He emphasized the importance of ensuring an inclusive administration within the regional organization.

Expressing deep concerns about the escalating threats to peace in the sub-region, including terrorism and the rise in military takeovers, President Tinubu highlighted the urgent need for collective action to address these challenges. He stressed that these obstacles hinder progress and development in the region.

 President Tinubu's Call for Regional Collaboration

President Tinubu called for enhanced regional collaboration to combat insecurity and terrorism across West Africa. Addressing this pressing issue, he declared, "On peace and security, the threat has reached an alarming level and needs urgent action. Without a peaceful environment, progress and development in the region will continue to remain elusive. In this regard, we must remain committed to utilizing all regional frameworks at our disposal to address the menace of insecurity."

President Tinubu acknowledged the existing security architecture within ECOWAS, which covers a broad range of areas including kinetic and non-kinetic operations, as well as preventive diplomacy. He also mentioned the Regional Plan of Action on Fight against Terrorism 2020-2024 and the operationalization of the ECOWAS Standby Force on Fight Against Terrorism. The President emphasized the need to harmonize these plans and mobilize resources and political will to effectively combat terrorism across the region.

An Honorable Appointment for President Tinubu

Expressing his gratitude for being elected Chairman in his first participation at the summit as Nigeria's leader, President Tinubu expressed his humility and honor in being entrusted with the leadership of the regional body. He assured everyone of his unwavering commitment to serving the interests of the community. President Tinubu underscored his dedication to regional integration and outlined his priorities as Chairman, which include political stability, peace and security, regional economic integration, and strengthening of ECOWAS institutions.

 Zero Tolerance for Coup d'états in the ECOWAS Region

President Tinubu strongly advocated for democracy and good governance as the fundamental pillars for sustainable peace and development. Expressing concern over the troubling trend of coup d'états in West Africa, where military forces overthrow the popular mandates of the people, he urged ECOWAS to firmly defend democracy and uphold the will of the people.

By assuming the ECOWAS chairmanship, President Tinubu has embarked on a significant leadership role, vowing to address the challenges of insecurity, terrorism, and political instability that currently plague the region. His call for regional collaboration and unwavering commitment to the interests of the community marks a new chapter in ECOWAS's efforts to foster peace, stability, and development across West Africa. Hopefully, this will create a better economy and great job opportunities for all the unemployed people in Africa.