Breaking: Tinubu re-elected ECOWAS chairman

President of Nigeria Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been re-elected for a second one-year term as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.

The unanimous decision was made by Tinubu’s counterparts during the 65th Ordinary Session of the Authority, held at the State House in Abuja on Sunday.

Tinubu’s first tenure is set to conclude on July 9, 2024.

In his acceptance remark, Tinubu said, “Let me underscore that a peaceful and secure society is essential for achieving our potentials, move to operationalise the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF) in combating terrorism, I must emphasise that the success of this plan requires, not only strong political will, but also substantial financial resources.

“We must therefore ensure that we meet the expectations and recommendations set forth by our ministers of Defense and Finance in order to counter the insecurity and stabilise our region. Member states must make extra commitment on providing resources for stabilising the region.

“To this end, I urge ECOWAS to leverage on the capability of the Nigeria National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC), which is widely acknowledge as one of the best on the continent.

“The Nigerian government has decided to declare the NCTC as a regional centre to enable all ECOWAS member states benefit from capacity building and other related opportunities it offers.

“Your excellencies, dear heads of state, I urge those of you with time to visit the centre before your departure and assess first-hand on the facilities and the capabilities of NCTC”, President Tinubu said.

President Tinubu also urged ECOWAS member states to unite and develop innovative approaches to unlock the region’s economic potential and promote prosperity.

He acknowledged the economic hurdles hindering progress and stressed the need for partnerships, investment, and infrastructure development.