ECOWAS AND UNOWAS REINFORCE STRATEGIC COORDINATION ON REGIONAL PEACE, SECURITY AND POLITICAL STABILITY IN WEST AFRICA AND THE SAHEL

The President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Dr Omar Alieu Touray, received Mr. Leonardo Santos Simão, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel and Head of UNOWAS, in Abuja on 24 March 2026, for high-level consultations focused on the evolving political, peace and security landscape across West Africa and the Sahel. The engagement provided a timely platform for strategic exchange, reaffirming ECOWAS’ central role as the primary regional framework for dialogue, coordination and collective action in addressing complex and interrelated challenges affecting the region.

The discussions were conducted in a constructive and forward-looking spirit, with both sides emphasizing the importance of coherence, trust and sustained institutional coordination. Particular attention was given to the need to strengthen African-led approaches, ensure alignment among regional and international initiatives, and preserve functional cooperation among Member States as a foundation for stability and integration. The President of the ECOWAS Commission highlighted the Community’s deliberate and pragmatic approach to maintaining engagement across key sectors, even in complex political contexts, as a means to sustain confidence and support long-term regional objectives.

The exchange also underscored the importance of preventive diplomacy, inclusive dialogue and coordinated responses in addressing ongoing transitions and security concerns across the region. Both sides recognised that durable solutions require sustained consultation, respect for agreed frameworks and strengthened ownership at the regional level, while ensuring that international support remains complementary to ECOWAS-led processes.

Mr. Leonardo Santos Simão reaffirmed the commitment of the United Nations, through UNOWAS, to continue working in close coordination with ECOWAS in advancing peace, stability and democratic governance in West Africa and the Sahel. He emphasised the value of strengthened institutional synergy in responding effectively to evolving regional dynamics and supporting collective efforts towards sustainable peace.

The engagement concluded with a shared understanding on the need to further deepen strategic consultation and reinforce coordination mechanisms between ECOWAS and UNOWAS, ensuring that joint efforts remain coherent, responsive and aligned with the priorities of Member States and the broader regional integration agenda.