ECOWAS Endorses President John Mahama for African Union Chair

The Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has unanimously endorsed the candidacy of President John Dramani Mahama for the position of Chairperson of the African Union (AU).

The endorsement was announced following a high-level ECOWAS meeting, marking a major diplomatic milestone for President Mahama’s continental ambitions. The decision represents a collective show of confidence by West African leaders in his leadership experience, regional influence, and vision for Africa’s political and economic integration.

This unanimous backing follows earlier support from ECOWAS Ministers of Foreign Affairs, who endorsed President Mahama’s bid during a meeting held in Abuja, Nigeria. That ministerial endorsement laid the groundwork for the final approval by the bloc’s heads of state.

Sources within ECOWAS describe the endorsement as strategic, with leaders citing President Mahama’s extensive experience in governance, diplomacy, and conflict resolution across the African continent. His previous roles in regional peace initiatives and international diplomacy are believed to have strengthened his candidacy.

If elected, President Mahama would assume one of the continent’s most influential leadership roles, responsible for coordinating Africa’s collective political direction, fostering unity among member states, and representing the continent on global platforms.

Political analysts say ECOWAS’ unified position significantly boosts Mahama’s chances ahead of the African Union’s selection process, as regional bloc endorsements often play a decisive role in continental elections.

The development has sparked reactions across Ghana and the wider West African sub-region, with supporters describing it as a proud moment for Ghanaian diplomacy and a recognition of Mahama’s stature beyond national politics.

As the African Union prepares for the next phase of consultations and elections, attention will now turn to how other regional blocs across the continent respond to Mahama’s candidacy.

Further details regarding the AU election timeline and competing candidates are expected to emerge in the coming weeks.