UN General Assembly
2025

In my role as chair of the ECOWAS Authority, I have placed emphasis on advancing and safeguarding democratic governance, with a strong commitment to upholding constitutional order and reflecting the people's will. Countering terrorism and strengthening our regional security architecture, including operationalizing the ECOWAS Stand-by Force and implementing counter-terrorism strategies. Enhancing economic integration by promoting trade, liberalization, developing cross-border infrastructure, and advancing towards a common ECOWAS currency. Strengthening the credibility of institutions through reforms that promote transparency, efficiency, and service focused on citizens. We urge the United Nations to deepen its partnership with ECOWAS and other African regional mechanisms in the spirit of Chapter 8 of the United Nations Chapter. Africa is not a problem to be solved. Africa is a partner to be empowered. During Sierra Leone's tenure as elected member of the Security Council 2024-2025, we have highlighted the urgent security challenges in West Africa and the Sahel, where terrorism and violent extremism transcends borders and destabilizes the entire region. However, Africa's lack of permanent representation continues to hinder the Council's ability to act decisively and contextually.