President Bola Tinubu has called on West African leaders to draw inspiration from Ghana’s recent peaceful elections, highlighting them as a testament to democratic maturity and commitment to national unity.
Speaking at the 66th Ordinary Session of ECOWAS on Sunday in Abuja, Tinubu commended Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo and the people of Ghana for the success of their presidential and parliamentary elections, which he described as setting a high standard for the region.
“I urge all of us in the region to learn from this exemplary democratic practice and prioritize national unity to ensure political stability,” Tinubu said. “This kind of peaceful transition must become the culture of democracy, not only in West Africa but across the African continent.”
Tinubu acknowledged the challenges faced by some West African nations regarding interrupted democratic governance but praised the region’s continued progress. He highlighted Ghana’s December 7, 2024, elections as a significant achievement.
He particularly lauded the political maturity displayed by Ghana’s incumbent Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia, who, along with the leadership of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), conceded defeat and congratulated President-elect John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) even before the official results were announced. Tinubu compared this act of statesmanship to Nigeria’s 2015 peaceful transition, emphasizing its importance in respecting the people’s will.
Tinubu also praised President Akufo-Addo for his exceptional leadership and dedication to ECOWAS during his tenure, describing him as a “formidable Pan-Africanist.” He further congratulated Senegal for its successful parliamentary elections and commended Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Shirley Ayokor Botchwey, for her efforts in leading the ECOWAS Ministerial Committee on Reform, wishing her success as the newly appointed Secretary General of the Commonwealth.
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As he begins his second term as ECOWAS Chair, Tinubu highlighted his achievements in regional integration, economic growth, conflict resolution, and counterterrorism efforts during his first term. He noted the significant impact of initiatives such as the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS), the Common External Tariff (CET), and regional infrastructure projects like the West African Gas Pipeline and the West Africa Power Pool, which have enhanced trade, connectivity, and cooperation.
“These projects, along with the modernization of key border posts using advanced technology, have significantly strengthened regional integration,” Tinubu stated.
He also commended ECOWAS peacekeeping efforts in countries like Gambia and Guinea Bissau and past operations in Liberia and Sierra Leone, which demonstrate the region’s ability to act decisively in times of crisis. He highlighted the ECOWAS Regional Action Plan on the Fight Against Terrorism as a comprehensive framework to address violent extremism and enhance security.
As ECOWAS approaches its 50th anniversary in 2025, Tinubu urged member states to recommit to the bloc’s founding principles of economic integration, peace, and prosperity.
“As leaders, we must protect our citizens and create an environment where they can thrive. Security is not a luxury—it is a necessity. Similarly, improving the living standards of our people is not an aspiration—it is an obligation,” he declared.
The session saw participation from the Presidents of Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, The Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, and Senegal, alongside other high-ranking representatives from Sierra Leone, Benin, Togo, and Cape Verde.
Dr. Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, praised Nigeria for its exemplary financial commitment under Tinubu’s leadership. Nigeria fully paid its 2023 community levy and made substantial remittances for 2024, a first in 19 years.
“For the first time in nearly two decades, Nigeria has fulfilled 100% of its community levy obligations. This payment, totaling N85 billion and $54 million, underscores the leadership and commitment of President Tinubu and the Nigerian people to our community,” Touray said. He urged other member states to follow suit by meeting their financial commitments.
Tinubu’s address reflected his vision for a stable, prosperous, and united West Africa, grounded in democracy and shared responsibility.
