Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been re-elected as the chairman of the regional bloc, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Tinubu who had served over the past year as leader of the bloc, was quickly reelected at the 65th 0rdinary session of the Authority of Heads of States and Governments at the state house in Abuja, Nigeria.
In his remarks, the president, who is facing a barrage of crisis both at home and in the region, urged member states to fulfil their financial obligations to the bloc to enable them tackle the myriads of challenges they face, especially insecurity and terrorism.
“Let me underscore that a peaceful and secure society is essential for achieving our potentials, move to operationalize the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF) in combating terrorism, I must emphasize that the success of this plan requires, not only strong political will, but also substantial financial resources.
“We must therefore ensure that we meet the expectations and recommendations set forth by our ministers of Defense and Finance in order to counter the insecurity and stabilize our region. Member states must make extra commitment on providing resources for stabilizing the region.
He also announced to the gathering that his government has decided to convert the Nigeria National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC) to a regional asset,
“The Nigerian government has decided to declare the NCTC as a regional centre to enable all ECOWAS member states benefit from capacity building and other related opportunities it offers.
” I urge ECOWAS to leverage on the capability of the Nigeria National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC), which is widely acknowledge as one of the best on the continent
“Your excellencies, dear heads of state, I urge those of you with time to visit the centre before your departure and assess first-hand on the facilities and the capabilities of NCTC”, Tinubu said.
President Tinubu also urged ECOWAS member states to unite and develop innovative approaches to unlock the region’s economic potential and promote prosperity.
He acknowledged the economic hurdles hindering progress and stressed the need for partnerships, investment, and infrastructure development.
He also announced the appointment of the leader of Senegal to join the mediation between the bloc and its self-exiled member states, Burkina Faso, Niger and Chad.
