President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is currently presiding over the 66th Ordinary Summit of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) at the Old Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja.
This significant gathering aims to address pressing regional issues, including advancing economic integration and ensuring institutional stability.
The summit occurs amidst heightened regional concerns following the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS. These nations have aligned under the newly formed Alliance of Sahel States (AES), raising questions about their future status within West Africa. The meeting will review sanctions imposed on these countries after recent military coups, striving to balance diplomatic efforts with a commitment to promoting democracy.
A key focus of the summit is the adoption of the ECO, ECOWAS's proposed single currency and enhancing trade among member states. Leaders will also discuss progress in countries under military rule, emphasizing shorter transitions to civilian governance. President Tinubu previously appointed Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to mediate between ECOWAS and the AES nations. His report is expected to be presented during the summit.
Participating countries include Benin Republic, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Togo. The summit will also address terrorism in the Sahel and political instability in member states.
In a statement, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among member states, saying, "Our collective strength lies in our ability to work together towards common goals, ensuring peace and prosperity for all our people."
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