West African leaders have rejected a transition timetable put forward by Guinea-Bissau’s military authorities, insisting on a rapid restoration of constitutional rule and warning that targeted sanctions could be imposed on individuals blocking progress. The position was reaffirmed on Sunday in Abuja during the 68th summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), where heads of state and government met against a backdrop of rising insecurity, economic strain and recurring political crises across the region.
Opening the summit, ECOWAS Commission Chair and Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio said the resurgence of unconstitutional changes of government remains one of the bloc’s most serious challenges. He cited Guinea-Bissau’s fragile political situation and a recent attempted coup in Benin as signs that democratic governance in West Africa requires constant vigilance. “Democracy is inseparable from peace, justice and development,” Bio said, warning that military takeovers and delayed transitions undermine citizens’ rights and regional stability.
Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu, urged leaders to preserve regional unity despite disagreements, stressing that ECOWAS should prioritize dialogue and collective responsibility over confrontation. “West Africa is a family bound by history, culture and shared aspirations,” Shettima said, adding that differences among member states should not weaken cooperation.
Beyond political issues, leaders reviewed regional economic integration efforts, including the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme, cross-border energy projects and transport infrastructure. The summit also addressed climate-related threats to food security, with calls for joint action to respond to floods, droughts and rising humanitarian needs. The meeting comes as ECOWAS continues difficult talks with military-led governments in the region, some of which have suspended or withdrawn from the bloc, raising concerns about the future of regional cohesion. ECOWAS, founded in 1975, brings together 15 West African countries with the mandate to promote economic integration, democracy, peace and political stability.
