ECOWAS has unanimously endorsed President John Dramani Mahama as the sole West African candidate for the African Union (AU) Chairmanship when the rotational leadership reaches the bloc’s turn in 2027.
The decision was made during the 95th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers in Abuja, Nigeria, marking a significant diplomatic milestone for both Ghana and the subregion. The declaration is expected to be formally adopted by the Authority of Heads of State and Government on Sunday, December 14, 2025.
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced the endorsement, describing it as a profound expression of confidence in President Mahama’s leadership and pan-African vision.
“I thank colleague Ministers greatly. Ghana is exceedingly grateful to ECOWAS for the confidence and support for our beloved visionary and Pan-African President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama. Ghana shall keep making Africa proud.”
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
The Council’s recommendation is grounded in a detailed declaration that underscores Ghana’s longstanding contributions to regional integration, diplomatic engagement, and continental development.
The document begins by referencing the legal basis of the Council of Ministers under the ECOWAS Revised Treaty, drawing attention to Articles 10, 11, and 12, which define its mandate and function. It highlights that Ghana’s request for support was carefully considered in view of the country’s respected role within the community.
The declaration affirms that Ghana remains an important member of ECOWAS, contributing significantly to the bloc’s international standing and efforts to secure representation in key continental and global institutions.
It stresses the need for ECOWAS to maintain strong visibility and influence within regional and international organisations by supporting candidates and member states that have demonstrated commitment to the community’s shared goals.
Coordinated Support within ECOWAS
One of the central arguments laid out in the recommendation is the importance of coordinated support within ECOWAS for leadership roles in bodies such as the African Union.
The Council expressed determination to work “in a concerted manner” to promote candidacies from the region, with the understanding that such efforts ensure the protection and promotion of ECOWAS’s collective interests.
By rallying behind President Mahama’s nomination, the bloc seeks to secure West Africa’s position within the AU and strengthen its influence on continental policymaking. The declaration further outlines the desire to adopt a unified stance for effective support and voting in favour of Ghana’s bid for the AU Chairmanship.
It recommends that the Authority of Heads of State and Government adopt the official Declaration of Support, thereby formalising the region’s commitment when the AU’s rotational leadership cycle reaches West Africa in 2027. Signed by H.E. Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, Chairman of the Council, the document reflects the unified voice of the regional body.
President Mahama’s endorsement comes at a time when Ghana continues to enjoy strong diplomatic standing within the subregion, bolstered by its active contributions to peacekeeping, governance reforms, and economic cooperation initiatives.
His record as a statesman—most notably his work in peace facilitation missions and his ongoing engagement with African governance institutions—positions him as a leading figure capable of steering continental priorities at the highest political level.
The unanimous endorsement signals ECOWAS’s recognition of President Mahama’s experience, credibility, and long-standing commitment to the ideals of the African Union.
It also indicates the bloc’s desire to project a unified and influential presence on the continental stage, particularly in critical areas such as conflict resolution, economic integration, youth development, and democratic consolidation.
Hon. Ablakwa’s expression of gratitude underscores Ghana’s appreciation for this vote of confidence. His message conveyed both national pride and a pledge that Ghana would continue to uphold the ideals of the ECOWAS community.
Formalization of Adopted Declaration
The anticipated adoption of the declaration by the Heads of State on Sunday is expected to formalise one of the most significant diplomatic endorsements in Ghana’s recent foreign policy engagements.
The decision not only reinforces Ghana’s leadership credentials within West Africa but also provides an early indication of the region’s strategic positioning ahead of 2027.
With the African Union’s rotating chairmanship often shaping continental priorities, ECOWAS’s unified support for President Mahama suggests a collective vision for stronger West African representation and influence in continental affairs.
As Ghana awaits the formal endorsement by the Authority of Heads of State and Government, the unanimous decision by the Council of Ministers stands as a testament to the country’s established diplomatic reputation and the region’s shared confidence in President Mahama’s leadership.
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