Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has been chosen as the new chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), amidst a backdrop of growing insecurity in the region.
West Africa has experienced a surge in military coups and terrorist activities, with six successful coups occurring since 2020, reversing the progress made towards democracy.
Tinubu, who assumed the role on Sunday, succeeded President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau. In his inaugural statement, Tinubu emphasized the urgent need to address the escalating threats of terrorism and coups in the region. He described the situation as reaching an “alarming proportion” and called for swift action.
The newly appointed ECOWAS chairman pledged to prioritize political stability, peace, security, and regional economic integration among the 16 member countries.
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Tinubu stressed the importance of utilizing all available regional frameworks to tackle the menace of insecurity effectively.
The appointment of Tinubu comes at a critical juncture for West Africa, as the region grapples with various security challenges.
By assuming the leadership of ECOWAS, Tinubu carries the responsibility of fostering cooperation among member states and devising strategies to restore stability.
The international community will closely watch Tinubu’s tenure, hoping that his leadership will lead to concrete actions and tangible improvements in the region’s security situation.
Achieving lasting peace and countering the threats of terrorism and coups will be paramount in his agenda as the new West Africa bloc chief.
