State House, Banjul, 20th July 2026: President Adama Barrow joined regional Heads of State and Government, for the 69th Ordinary Session of the Authority of ECOWAS in Sierra Leone.

The Summit built on the momentum of the 68th session, where leaders underscored the importance of peace and securing advancement, strategic infrastructure, energy self‑dependency, and digital innovation as pillars for regional transformation.

As Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s term ended as the Chairman, His Excellency Basiru Diomaye Faye was duly named the new Chair of the ECOWAS Authority. In receiving his emblem he pledged to transform consensus into action and vision into lasting transformation. The establishment of the ECOWAS Business Council, chaired by Aliko Dangote, was hailed as a milestone in strengthening public‑private partnerships and advancing economic competitiveness.

President Barrow, in his statement reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to collective action, noting that ECOWAS must continue to combat terrorism, regional energy expansion, and create job opportunities while preserving peace and security in the region. He emphasised that dialogue, credibility, and solidarity must guide ambitions as the region pursues prosperity.

Delivering his remarks, President Julius Maada Bio emphasised that “dependency narrows freedom,” urging member states to invest in education, science, and digital skills to secure sovereignty and sustainable growth. He highlighted the need for stronger maritime security, early response mechanisms to crises, and robust institutions capable of delivering tangible results. Women, he stressed, must remain central to national development.

The outgoing President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Alieu Touray, who assumed office in 2022, expressed gratitude for the trust and support received during his tenure. He extended appreciation to President Bio for the warm hospitality and to President Barrow and the Gambian people for their confidence in his leadership.

The leaders concluded by underscoring their shared determination to preserve peace, foster resilience, and accelerate progress toward a future of the ECOWAS sub-region defined by unity, innovation, and sustainable development.