Nigeria: Nigerian President Mr. Bola Tinubu has been appointed as the new chairman of the West African regional bloc ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) amidst a backdrop of escalating insecurity, including military coups and violent activities by armed groups in the region.
This decision comes at a critical time when West Africa has witnessed six successful military coups since 2020, indicating a regression in its democratic progress and challenging its efforts to shed the reputation of being a “coup belt.”
The transfer of chairmanship occurred following an attempted coup in Guinea-Bissau, where President Umaro Sissoco Embalo passed on the rotational leadership position to Tinubu after a vote. Tinubu has expressed the urgent need for swift action to address insecurity and coups, which he described as having reached an “alarming proportion.”
In a statement issued on Monday, Mr. Tinubu emphasized the importance of utilizing all regional frameworks available to tackle the menace of insecurity. He pledged to prioritize political stability, peace, security, and regional economic integration within the 16-member ECOWAS.
The chairmanship of ECOWAS, which typically lasts for one year, is rotated among the member countries of the bloc. Tinubu’s appointment as chairman reflects the recognition of Nigeria’s role and influence within the region, as well as the expectation that he will play a key role in addressing the pressing challenges facing West Africa.
RELATED | China to impose export restrictions on rare metals over national security concerns
