ECOWAS has unanimously endorsed President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, as West Africa’s sole candidate for the position of Chairperson of the African Union (AU) when the rotating leadership returns to the sub-region in 2027.
The endorsement came during the ECOWAS Council of Ministers meeting in Abuja, Nigeria, where ministers gave unanimous backing to President Mahama.
In an earlier statement issued by Ninety-Fifth Ordinary Sesaion of the Counil of Ministers on Friday, December 12, 2025, the Council confirmed that all member states had rallied behind Ghana’s bid, agreeing to present him as the only candidate from ECOWAS when the AU chairmanship returns to West Africa.
The Chairperson of the AU presides over the Assembly, provides political leadership, represents the continent at high-level international engagements, and plays a key role in advancing peace, security, integration, and development initiatives.
In line with the rotational arrangement, West Africa is expected to produce the AU Chairperson in 2027 following the conclusion of the current cycle.
Regional economic communities, including ECOWAS, consult internally and present a single consensus candidate to the continental body, a process designed to avoid intra-regional competition and promote unity.
The ECOWAS Council of Ministers, composed of foreign affairs and integration ministers, conducts the initial vetting and makes recommendations to the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, the bloc’s supreme decision-making organ.
President Mahama’s endorsement followed this established procedure. His candidature was first reviewed and unanimously supported by the Council of Ministers before being formally approved by the ECOWAS Authority.
The Authority, scheduled to meet on Sunday, December 14, 2025, is expected to adopt the declaration, formally confirming President Mahama as West Africa’s consensus nominee.
Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed the decision, stating that ECOWAS’ overwhelming support clears the way for President Mahama to become AU Chairperson in 2027.
“ECOWAS ministers have unanimously endorsed the resolution of the Council, making President John Dramani Mahama the sole candidate from ECOWAS for Chairperson of the African Union when the rotating chairmanship returns to West Africa in 2027,” the minister highlighted.
The Council also emphasized the significance of the endorsement for Ghana’s international standing, describing it as a strong vote of confidence in Mahama’s Pan-African leadership. President Mahama expressed his gratitude and pledged to live up to the trust placed in him.
“President Mahama conveyed his deepest appreciation to his peers and assured that he will meet the legitimate high expectations of the continent,” Minister Ablakwa added.
source name:Ernest kelvin Okanta
