Ghana to serve as bridge for West African unity -Mahama 

Ghana's Role in West African Unity

President John Dramani Mahama stated that Ghana is ready to help unite West Africa. He emphasized the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and negotiation for restoring trust.

He spoke at the launch of the Golden Jubilee Celebration of ECOWAS in Accra. The event was themed "Stronger Together for a Brighter Future." It was attended by leaders from various ECOWAS member countries.

President Mahama expressed regret over Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Sahel's withdrawal from ECOWAS. He stressed that engagement should replace isolation and promote understanding.

Since taking office, he has focused on diplomatic ties with Sahelian neighbors. Ghana appointed a special envoy to start high-level talks with the Alliance of Sahel States.

Mahama has personally led missions to build trust and communication. He believes unity is essential for shared prosperity and regional stability.

He called for solidarity with Sahelian states facing challenges. Diplomacy should create conditions for peace, inclusion, and progress. It must also foster mutual respect and advance common interests.

The commitment to integration should cover economic, social, and cultural areas. This includes harmonizing trade negotiations and facilitating free movement among people.

Mahama advocated empowering ECOWAS institutions to act effectively. Citizens should see ECOWAS as a community that understands their struggles.

He highlighted the importance of soft diplomacy through shared languages and culture. These elements bind nations together more than treaties can.

He urged leaders to view ECOWAS as a diplomatic anchor for Africa. This model should promote integration, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence.

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised Mahama’s leadership in his speech read by Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu. He reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to collaborate with all nations within ECOWAS.

Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, noted that the 50th anniversary aims to celebrate and reflect on their community's achievements.