ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council Holds 53rd Session in Abuja …. Tuggar Commends Ghana and Senegal for successful elections 

Oru Leonard 

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Mediation and Security Council convened its 53rd session at the ministerial level in Abuja, Nigeria, on December 11, 2024. The meeting was chaired by H.E. Amb. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, OON, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

In his opening remarks, Tuggar commended Ghana and Senegal for their successful elections, noting that these achievements demonstrate the region’s commitment to democratic governance. He also praised the ECOWAS Commission for its support in strengthening democratic principles across the region..

The council addressed pressing regional challenges, including:

– Political Stability: Tuggar emphasized the importance of strengthening governance frameworks and promoting peaceful political transitions.
– Terrorism and Organized Crime: The council recognized the need for collective action and regional cooperation to address escalating threats.
– Humanitarian Crises: Members discussed the dire humanitarian situation in the region, including displacement, food insecurity, and climate-related disasters.

Despite these challenges, the council acknowledged progress in:

– Maritime Security: Significant improvements were reported in the ECOWAS Maritime Domain, with no piracy incidents in 2024.
– ECOWAS Standby Force: Efforts to operationalize the force are advancing, with updates expected on mobilizing resources.

Tuggar urged member states to renew their commitment to regional unity, solidarity, and partnership to overcome challenges and build a more secure, peaceful, and prosperous West Africa.

“As we look ahead, let us remain mindful that peace and stability in West Africa are prerequisites for the prosperity and development of our region. I call on all Member States to renew their commitment to working together in solidarity and shared purpose to overcome the challenges we face and to build a more secure, peaceful, and prosperous West Africa.
“I therefore urge us all to engage in frank discussions today. Let these deliberations reaffirm ECOWAS’s role as a beacon of hope for millions across the region who look to us for leadership, stability, and progress.” he concluded.