By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio was elected Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a historic milestone in regional leadership and cooperation. His appointment was confirmed during the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority held on June 22, 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria, marking the first time a Sierra Leonean has assumed this prestigious role.

His election has been met with national pride and regional optimism, as he steps into the role at a critical time for West Africa, amid security threats, economic vulnerabilities and rising demands for democratic accountability. In his acceptance speech, President Bio expressed deep gratitude to his fellow Heads of State for the trust placed in him and his country, pledging to lead with commitment and integrity.

“I am both humbled and grateful to accept the honour of chairing the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government,” he said. “Thank you for placing your trust in me and in the Republic of Sierra Leone. I accept this responsibility with full awareness of the magnitude of the task ahead and the complexity of the moment.”

He paid tribute to his predecessor, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his “unwavering commitment to regional dialogue, economic recovery, and peace-building,” adding, “I am honoured to build upon the strong foundation you have established.”

President Bio announced four strategic priorities for his one-year term as Chairman:

- Restoring Constitutional Order and Deepening Democracy – Emphasizing the need to support transitional Governments and strengthen democratic institutions rooted in the rule of law.


- Revitalizing Regional Security Cooperation – Advocating for an overhaul of the region’s collective security systems, including enhanced intelligence sharing and rapid response mechanisms to confront terrorism, political instability and organized crime.


- Unlocking Economic Integration – Calling for full implementation of the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), development of cross-border infrastructure and support for value chains that generate jobs for women and youth.


- Building Institutional Credibility – Urging reform of ECOWAS institutions to become more transparent, efficient and people-centred.

“Our vibrant and youthful population, abundant natural resources and entrepreneurial spirit remain our strongest assets,” President Bio noted. “ECOWAS must be redefined, not as a distant institution, but as a proactive, people-centred vehicle for peace, inclusion and opportunity.”

He further stressed the importance of harmonizing trade, customs and quality standards to enhance intra-regional competitiveness and called for accelerating progress toward a monetary union.

The 67th Ordinary Session brought together regional leaders to assess the state of the Community, address security and political developments and chart a course for ECOWAS’s future. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his opening remarks, reflected on the regional bloc’s 50-year journey, while urging stronger collective action against the rising tide of terrorism and violent extremism.

“While celebrating our achievements, we must confront the security threats that continue to endanger our aspirations,” President Tinubu said. “No single nation can address these challenges alone. We must rethink coordination, amplify political will and act decisively.”

Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, commended ECOWAS’s progress as Africa’s most advanced regional economic community and noted encouraging diplomatic engagements with member states that recently withdrew. He emphasized the private sector’s pivotal role in sustainable development.

The summit also featured remarks from the United Nations and African Union, both reaffirming support for ECOWAS and urging increased efforts to combat terrorism, address inequality and harness youth potential through innovation and education.

In closing, President Bio reaffirmed his belief in the region’s potential: “West Africa’s future is not one of decline, but of possibility; if we act with courage, unity and moral clarity. Let us rise to this moment together, not as separate nations, but as a united community of destiny.”

As he begins his tenure, expectations are high that President Bio’s leadership will breathe new life into ECOWAS’s vision of transforming from an “ECOWAS of States” to an “ECOWAS of the People,” ensuring peace and prosperity for all by 2050.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), established on May 28, 1975, now comprises 12 member states following the recent withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. The bloc represents over 300 million citizens and a combined GDP of approximately $735 billion. Through strategic reforms and deeper integration, ECOWAS aims to become a powerful force for regional transformation and continental progress. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/president-bio-elected-chairman-of-ecowas-vows-to-restore-order-and-deepen-democracy/