The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Council of Ministers has unanimously endorsed former President John Dramani Mahama as the sub-region’s sole candidate for the position of Chairperson of the African Union (AU) when the rotating leadership reaches West Africa’s turn in 2027.
The endorsement was contained in an official recommendation adopted at the Ninety-Fifth Ordinary Session of the Council of Ministers held in Abuja on Friday. The decision follows a request by the Government of Ghana for regional backing for President Mahama’s candidacy.
In the resolution, the Council underscored Ghana’s longstanding contribution to ECOWAS and Africa’s integration agenda, describing the country as “an important ECOWAS Member State” whose leadership continues to strengthen the sub-region’s international standing.
The Council further noted the need to improve the presence of ECOWAS nationals in strategic continental and international organisations. It emphasized that supporting President Mahama’s bid aligns with ongoing efforts to advance the region’s collective interests on the global stage.
The endorsement, read and signed by the Chairman of the Council of Ministers, H.E. Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, urged the Authority of Heads of State and Government—the highest decision-making body of ECOWAS—to adopt the declaration when it convenes on Sunday.
Ghana’s delegation expressed profound appreciation to colleague ministers for the show of confidence. “Ghana is exceedingly grateful to ECOWAS for the confidence and support for our beloved visionary and Pan-African President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama,” the country’s representative said after the session.
If confirmed by the Authority, President Mahama will become West Africa’s official candidate to lead the African Union in 2027, potentially positioning the sub-region to play a more assertive role in continental policy direction.
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