The president of the ECOWAS Commission, accompanied by Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, and Gana Lawan, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Ghana, was received in audience by Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, at Jubilee House, Accra.
During the meeting, Dr. Omar Touray provided an update on the current state of affairs in ECOWAS, particularly addressing the withdrawal of the AES countries and the contingency measures implemented in response.
He also highlighted ongoing challenges, preparations for ECOWAS’ 50th-anniversary celebrations, and plans for a Special Summit aimed at fostering inclusivity and charting the future direction of the regional body.
President Touray congratulated President Mahama on his election victory and expressed the Commission’s commitment to collaborating closely with his administration to further ECOWAS’ core objectives, particularly in promoting good governance, economic development, regional integration, and security.
In response, President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s unwavering commitment to ECOWAS and pledged his administration’s full support toward achieving the organization’s objectives.
He expressed gratitude to the ECOWAS Commission for its electoral support, which contributed significantly to the successful conduct of Ghana’s 7th December 2024 Presidential elections,
reinforcing the country’s democratic credentials.
President Mahama recounted the numerous benefits Ghana has derived from its ECOWAS membership, including advancements in democracy and governance, the free movement of people, the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), peacekeeping initiatives, and major infrastructure projects, such as the Lagos-Abidjan Highway Corridor, which was initiated during his first term in office.
On the issue of the AES countries, President Mahama emphasized the importance of continued dialogue to promote regional peace and security. To this end, he announced the appointment of a Special Envoy tasked with facilitating engagement and working towards the reintegration of the AES countries into the ECOWAS community.
As ECOWAS prepares to commemorate its 50th anniversary, President Mahama commended the regional body’s achievements and progress over the years.
He informed Dr. Touray that Ghana has established a dedicated committee and allocated a budget to support the anniversary celebrations.
The president also welcomed the proposed all-inclusive regional Summit, aimed at repositioning ECOWAS to effectively navigate the evolving global landscape.
President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s alignment with ECOWAS’ vision and reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation for sustainable development, stability and economic prosperity.