President Julius Maada Bio Outlines Strategic Vision as New ECOWAS Chair
Accra, Ghana – [Date] – In his inaugural address as the newly elected Chair of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone unveiled a bold and focused agenda to reposition the regional bloc for stability, integration, and institutional renewal.
Speaking at the ECOWAS Summit in Accra, President Bio outlined four key priorities that will define his leadership as the region continues to navigate complex political, economic, and security challenges.
“As Chair, I will prioritise four key areas,” President Bio declared. “First, the restoration of constitutional order and the deepening of democracy; second, the revitalisation of regional security cooperation; third, the acceleration of economic integration across our sub-region; and fourth, the strengthening of institutional credibility within ECOWAS.”
A Vision for Stability and Democratic Renewal
President Bio’s leadership begins at a critical time, with West Africa facing mounting instability stemming from military coups, violent extremism, and economic shocks. By placing democratic governance and constitutional order at the top of his agenda, he signaled a strong commitment to reversing recent democratic backsliding in the region.
His pledge to revitalise security cooperation also comes amid growing concerns over terrorism and insurgency in parts of the Sahel and coastal West Africa. President Bio urged member states to recommit to collective action and solidarity, particularly in addressing transnational threats.
Driving Economic Integration and Institutional Reform
The third pillar of his agenda—accelerated economic integration—focuses on removing trade barriers, facilitating cross-border infrastructure, and enhancing regional value chains to promote inclusive growth.
He also emphasised the need to strengthen ECOWAS institutions to improve transparency, accountability, and responsiveness. President Bio called for a people-centered ECOWAS that serves citizens, not just political elites.
“We must restore confidence in ECOWAS as a credible, proactive, and democratic institution that works in the interest of our people,” he noted.
Tribute to Predecessor and Call for Unity
President Bio paid tribute to his predecessor, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, praising his leadership during a period of significant regional turbulence.
“I wish to acknowledge and commend the outstanding leadership of my predecessor and dear brother, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” President Bio said. “His stewardship helped steer the bloc through a period of uncertainty.”
President Bio’s elevation to the ECOWAS chairmanship has been broadly welcomed by fellow leaders and political observers across West Africa. His reputation as a reformer, peacebuilder, and advocate for democratic governance positions him as a credible figure to navigate ECOWAS through the challenges ahead.
