In a significant leadership change, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has officially assumed the chairmanship of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), succeeding Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The transition was formalized during the 65th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, held in Abuja, Nigeria, on June 16, 2025. President Tinubu, who took over the role in July 2023, used his final address as ECOWAS chair to urge unity and decisive action in addressing West Africa’s escalating political instability, security threats, and economic hurdles. “The vision of regional integration and democratic governance must remain our compass in these trying times,” Tinubu said, referencing recent coups and governance crises in member states such as Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Guinea.
During Tinubu’s tenure, ECOWAS faced several challenges, including the controversial exit of military-led regimes from the bloc, stalled dialogue with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), and strained efforts to restore democratic rule. He also spearheaded initiatives to re-engage suspended members and strengthen the ECOWAS Standby Force. Accepting the chairmanship, President Bio pledged to continue Tinubu’s efforts while reinforcing regional solidarity, democratic norms, and sustainable development. “This is a time for bold, collective leadership,” Bio said. “We must confront the forces of instability and advance the ideals of democracy, good governance, and economic cooperation.”
Analysts say Bio’s leadership will be tested by ongoing diplomatic deadlocks with junta-led states, as well as increasing public demand for transparency and reform within ECOWAS institutions. His appointment comes as Sierra Leone continues to rebuild after its own political tensions, including post-election disputes and economic challenges. The ECOWAS summit also reviewed progress on regional projects such as the single currency initiative, joint infrastructure development, and anti-terrorism cooperation, while reaffirming its commitment to economic integration and peacekeeping operations.
