By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, August 5, 2025 — President Julius Maada Bio, Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, has called for a strengthened partnership between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. The appeal was made during a courtesy visit from His Excellency Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, at State House in Freetown.
Welcoming the delegation, President Bio emphasized the need for deeper collaboration between ECOWAS and the AES countries. He emphasized that strengthened ties are crucial for fostering regional trade, facilitating the free movement of people, and promoting peace and security across West Africa.
“We must build a stronger relationship between ECOWAS and the AES nations and harness this partnership for the advancement of our Community,” President Bio stated.
He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting democratic transitions and electoral processes within the subregion, citing the ongoing transition in Guinea and upcoming elections in Côte d’Ivoire and Guinea-Bissau.
President Bio proposed the convening of a Special Summit to reflect on the future of West Africa and the ECOWAS Community, marking 50 years of regional cooperation and integration.
Dr. Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, provided a comprehensive update on the current status of the Community. He acknowledged the challenges facing the subregion and pledged close collaboration with President Bio to foster regional unity.
The briefing included: Updates on political developments in Member States; discussions on the Community Levy; and administrative matters affecting ECOWAS operations.
Dr. Touray also announced that the Commission will soon deploy an assessment mission to Sierra Leone and Guinea to address the long-standing Yenga border dispute.