President Bola Tinubu has emerged as the new Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The decision was reached during the organization’s 63rd Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community in Bissau, capital of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau on Sunday.

Tinubu in his first engagement as a President within the African continent since he assumed office on May 29, 2023, succeeds President Umaro Embalo of Guinea Bissau as ECOWAS chair.

Tinubu, who is the latest entrant into the exclusive club of Heads of State in West Africa, promised to bear the responsibility of the office and run an inclusive administration of the regional organization. As the chairman he is expected to play a crucial role in leading the ECOWAS member-states towards economic development, political stability, and cooperation. And also collaborate closely with member states, regional institutions, and international partners to implement initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth, regional trade integration, and social development.

Additionally, he is expected to focus on strengthening the ECOWAS’ collective response to security threats and fostering closer cooperation among member states in addressing regional challenges.