Senegal secured a landmark role in West African governance after being elected to lead the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission during the 68th Ordinary Session of the Conference of Heads of State and Government in Abuja, Nigeria, on December 14. This marks the first time the country will hold the commission's presidency, with its 2026–2030 term set to begin next year.
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye expressed gratitude for the regional bloc's confidence, pledging to prioritize peace, stability, and deeper integration across West Africa. The ECOWAS Commission presidency carries responsibilities including policy implementation, development program coordination, and international representation for the 12-member bloc.
The election comes amid ongoing shifts in the region's political landscape, following Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger's withdrawal from ECOWAS in January 2025. Established in 1975, ECOWAS remains a critical platform for addressing security challenges and economic collaboration in West Africa.
