Abuja: The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has endorsed Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama as its candidate for the position of Chairperson of the African Union (AU) in 2027. This endorsement positions President Mahama as the AU Chairperson-in-waiting, as the leadership of the union is set to rotate to West Africa in 2025.

According to Nam News Network, the announcement was made by Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, through a social media post on Sunday, December 14. The endorsement took place during the 68th ECOWAS Heads of State Summit in Abuja, Nigeria, where the presidents of ECOWAS unanimously supported Mahama’s candidature.

The ECOWAS presidents’ unanimous endorsement of the Ministerial Council’s resolution solidifies President Mahama’s position as the sole West African candidate for AU Chairperson in 2027. This support from the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government eliminates any obstacles, ensuring Mahama’s role as the AU Chairperson-in-waiting.

Minister Ablakwa also noted that President Mahama expressed his gratitude to his fellow heads of state for their endorsement. Mahama conveyed his appreciation and assured the leaders that he is committed to meeting the expectations of the continent. The post concluded with congratulations to President Mahama for his continued contributions to Ghana’s prestige.

The endorsement follows the decision by the ECOWAS Council of Ministers to unanimously support President Mahama as West Africa’s sole candidate for the AU Chairperson position, aligning with the regional rotation set for 2027.