The Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reaffirmed its commitment to launch the long-awaited ECO single currency in 2027, alongside a broad package of decisions aimed at strengthening regional security, economic integration and democratic governance.
The decisions were reached at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority held in Lungi, Sierra Leone, where West African leaders reviewed political, economic and security developments across the sub-region and adopted a Final Communiqué outlining the bloc’s priorities for the coming years.
On the proposed single currency, the Authority resolved that the ECO would be introduced in 2027, beginning with Member States that meet the agreed macroeconomic convergence criteria. Countries that have not yet fulfilled the requirements will continue to receive technical support to enable them join the monetary union at a later stage.
The leaders directed the ECOWAS Commission and Governors of Member States’ Central Banks to intensify consultations and complete all outstanding technical issues necessary for the successful implementation of the regional currency programme.
Concerned over the deteriorating security situation in parts of West Africa, particularly the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin, the Authority condemned terrorism, kidnapping, armed banditry and violent extremism, describing them as major threats to regional peace and development.
The summit reaffirmed support for the operationalisation of the ECOWAS Counterterrorism Force and urged Member States to fulfil their financial commitments under the Community Levy to strengthen regional security cooperation.
ECOWAS leaders also renewed the mandate of the Special Envoy on Counterterrorism, Ambassador Baba Kamara, for another three years.
On regional integration, the Authority reaffirmed its commitment to the ECOWAS Protocol on the Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Establishment, stressing that free movement remains one of the Community’s greatest achievements and a critical driver of trade, investment and economic growth.
The summit expressed concern over food insecurity and rising fertiliser prices affecting agricultural production in parts of the region. It called for accelerated implementation of the ECOWAS Regional Rice Roadmap to boost local food production and reduce dependence on imports.
The leaders also endorsed new regional initiatives on digital transformation, including stronger data protection, cybersecurity cooperation, digital governance and electronic communications.
On political developments, the Authority welcomed progress in democratic transitions and electoral preparations in several Member States while urging governments to uphold constitutional order, inclusive governance and peaceful elections.
The summit further condemned recurring xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa and called on the South African authorities to ensure the protection of all African citizens living in the country.
In another major decision, the Authority appointed General Birame Diop of Senegal as President of the ECOWAS Commission for the 2026–2030 term.
The Heads of State also elected Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, as the new Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government for a one-year tenure, succeeding Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio.
The communiqué reaffirmed ECOWAS’ determination to deepen regional integration, promote sustainable economic development, strengthen democratic institutions and enhance collective security as West Africa confronts emerging political and economic challenges.
