ECOWAS Unanimously Endorses John Mahama for African Union (AU)

ECOWAS unanimously endorses John Mahama for African Union (AU) chairmanship in Abuja.

In a significant development on the continental political front, the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has unanimously endorsed former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama as the region’s sole candidate for the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).

The decision was made during the just-ended ECOWAS Summit held in Abuja, Nigeria, marking a major milestone in Mahama’s bid to lead the AU Commission when the tenure of the current leadership ends in 2025.

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This endorsement by the highest decision-making body of ECOWAS follows an earlier recommendation by the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, comprising foreign affairs ministers from member states.

At their preparatory meeting, the ministers threw their weight behind Mahama, citing his vast experience in governance, diplomacy, and peacebuilding across Africa.

President Mahama, who served as Ghana’s Head of State from 2012 to 2017, has continued to play an active role in regional and continental affairs.

He is widely respected for his commitment to democracy, regional integration, and conflict resolution having served as a mediator and special envoy in several African peace processes.

His endorsement is seen as a strategic move to strengthen West Africa’s leadership influence within the African Union, especially at a time when the continent faces complex political and security challenges.

If elected, John Mahama will become the first Ghanaian to occupy the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission, the continent’s top diplomatic role.

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The AU elections are scheduled for early 2025, and Mahama’s candidacy is expected to receive strong backing from multiple African regions following this united endorsement by ECOWAS.