President John Dramani Mahama has called for renewed commitment to peace, economic transformation and the effective implementation of regional agreements, stressing that the future of West Africa depends on stronger cooperation among ECOWAS member states.
Addressing the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Lungi, Sierra Leone, President Mahama commended the Government of Sierra Leone for constructing the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre and praised ECOWAS for establishing an Ultra-Portable Logistics Depot to strengthen the region’s emergency response and security capabilities.
“It is a beautiful facility and a worthy investment,” President Mahama said, while applauding Sierra Leone’s commitment to advancing regional cooperation.
The President also expressed appreciation to Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio for his solidarity visit to Ghana following the recent floods that claimed the lives of 39 people.
“Your expression of sympathy and solidarity during that difficult period was deeply appreciated,” he stated.
Peace and Economic Transformation Must Go Together
President Mahama emphasised that peace and security remain the foundation for sustainable development, warning that without stability, economic progress would remain unattainable.
“Peace and security remain fundamental to the development of our sub-region. Without peace, development will remain an illusion.”
He noted that sustainable economic transformation is equally critical if West Africa is to occupy its rightful place in the global economy, adding that the region must work collectively to confront terrorism, violent extremism and transnational organised crime.
Calling for stronger cooperation, President Mahama urged ECOWAS member states to maintain constructive engagement with the Alliance of Sahel States.
“Geography has made us neighbours, history has made us partners, and our future requires that we remain one West African family.”
He added that while differences among countries may arise, they should never weaken the shared commitment to peace, cooperation and prosperity.
Science, Innovation and Inclusive Development
President Mahama stressed that investment in science, technology and innovation is indispensable for the region’s competitiveness.
According to him, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, smart learning systems and modern production methods are reshaping the global economy and must become priorities for ECOWAS.
He further called for institutional reforms to improve service delivery and ensure ECOWAS remains responsive to the needs of its citizens.
On youth and women’s participation, President Mahama argued that sustainable development cannot be achieved unless they are fully involved in national and regional decision-making.
Delivering the Dividends of Democracy
The Ghanaian leader observed that citizens across West Africa now expect democracy to translate into better livelihoods, jobs, accountability and quality public services.
“Our citizens are no longer satisfied with being called upon only to vote every four or five years. They want to experience the real dividends of democracy, and it is our responsibility as leaders to make that happen.”
He added that the future of ECOWAS must be built not only in conference halls but also in classrooms, farms, factories, research institutions, innovation hubs, marketplaces and communities.
President Mahama urged member states to move beyond adopting treaties and protocols and instead focus on implementing them effectively so citizens can enjoy their full benefits.
Leadership Transition at a Critical Moment
Touching on the appointment of a new ECOWAS Commission leadership, President Mahama described the transition as a defining moment for the regional bloc.
He said the incoming President, Vice-President and Commissioners must not only manage the institution but also lead the implementation of the ECOWAS Compact, deepen regional integration and respond decisively to the political, economic and security challenges confronting West Africa.
Raises Concern Over Xenophobic Attacks
President Mahama also drew the attention of the Summit to recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which he said had affected Africans, including Ghanaians and Nigerians.
He welcomed ECOWAS’ decision to support Ghana’s request for the matter to be placed on the agenda of the next African Union Summit.
“Africa’s liberation was achieved through solidarity across our borders. We must never allow that proud legacy to be weakened by intolerance and the actions of a small minority.”
Ghana Reaffirms Commitment to ECOWAS
In concluding his address, President Mahama paid tribute to the outgoing leadership and staff of the ECOWAS Commission, as well as the Council of Ministers, for their dedication to advancing regional integration.
He reaffirmed Ghana’s unwavering commitment to the ideals of ECOWAS and pledged to continue working with member states and development partners to promote peace, prosperity and deeper regional integration across West Africa.
“Ghana remains steadfast in its commitment to the ideals and objectives of ECOWAS and stands ready to work with all member states, the Commission and our development partners to advance peace, prosperity and regional integration across West Africa.”
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
