Nigeria Congratulates Senegal’s Faye on Election as New ECOWAS Chairman

The Nigerian government has congratulated Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye on his election as the new Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Authority of Heads of State and Government.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, said Nigeria welcomed the emergence of President Faye as the regional bloc’s leader.

Nigeria commended ECOWAS for what it described as a smooth transition, saying the process reflected the organisation’s commitment to democratic values, regional unity and collective development.

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“President Faye’s assumption of this important role comes at a pivotal moment for West Africa, as the region continues to address shared challenges and pursue deeper integration, peace, security, and economic prosperity for our peoples,” the statement read.

The ministry said Nigeria, as a founding member of ECOWAS and a strong advocate of regional cooperation, would support Faye’s leadership to advance the objectives of the bloc.

“We are confident that under his able leadership, ECOWAS will advance the goals of unity, stability, and sustainable development across the sub-region,” it added.

The Nigerian government also pledged to work with Senegal and other ECOWAS member states to strengthen the bloc’s institutions, boost intra-regional trade, promote good governance and enhance peace and security across West Africa.

Nigeria further congratulated Senegal on the appointment of General Birame Diop as the new President of the ECOWAS Commission, expressing readiness to collaborate with the new leadership team.