On 12 December 2025, Ministers of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) concluded the 95th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, held from 10 to 12 December 2025, with a renewed commitment to strengthening regional peace, security, and economic integration.
In his closing remarks, the Chair of the Ministerial Council and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sierra Leone expressed appreciation to Member States for what he described as open, constructive, and productive deliberations, which underscored the Community’s collective resolve to advance shared prosperity and regional cohesion.
He commended the active participation of delegates, noting that their dedication and collaborative spirit reflected ECOWAS’s enduring commitment to peace, stability, and regional integration. A special tribute was paid to the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for hosting the meeting and for the efficient arrangements that ensured its success, as well as to the conference secretaries, foreign representatives, and technical teams who facilitated the proceedings.
During the session, ministers examined critical challenges shaping West Africa’s future, including terrorism and violent extremism, the proliferation of small arms, transnational organised crime, maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea, unconstitutional changes of government, economic integration gaps, and the growing impact of climate change. While acknowledging the gravity of these threats, the Chair stressed that they were surmountable through unity, solidarity, and a balanced use of diplomatic and operational measures.
The Council also reviewed political developments in some member states and their implications for democratic governance. In this context, Sierra Leone reaffirmed its firm commitment to ECOWAS principles, emphasising that democracy, constitutional order, and the rule of law remain non-negotiable foundations of the Community.
On economic integration, ministers reiterated the urgency of accelerating flagship regional initiatives, including the ECOWAS Single Currency programme, the Free Movement Protocols, and the Customs Union. Against the backdrop of global economic uncertainty, the meeting emphasised the need to mitigate structural vulnerabilities, foster intra-regional trade, and develop a more competitive and integrated West African economy. Sierra Leone pledged to work closely with member states and ECOWAS institutions, particularly in areas of youth employment, innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development.
Humanitarian concerns and climate-related vulnerabilities also featured prominently in the deliberations. Ministers noted the interconnected nature of challenges such as food insecurity, displacement, education disruptions, and natural disasters, and called for coordinated, proactive regional responses. The Chair commended ongoing efforts to strengthen early warning systems, regional preparedness, and resource mobilisation to better support affected communities.
In his closing remarks, the Chair reminded ministers of their responsibility to translate the vision of ECOWAS leaders into concrete action. He urged member states to sustain the momentum generated at the session by faithfully implementing agreed decisions, enhancing coordination among national and regional institutions, and maintaining open channels of communication. He also expressed gratitude to the ECOWAS Commission, briefers, and interpreters for their technical expertise and dedication, which contributed significantly to the quality of the outcomes.
Reaffirming Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to ECOWAS, the Chair described the Community as a pillar of stability and a pathway to collective progress in an uncertain global environment. With optimism and a shared sense of purpose, he formally declared the session closed and wished delegates safe travels back to their respective capitals.
Signed:
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr
Spokesperson,
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abuja
12th December 2025
