AYV News, August 13, 2025

ECOWAS Chairperson and Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, along with Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara, have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ECOWAS and revitalising the Mano River Union.

The pledge came during President Bio’s one-day working visit to Abidjan, part of his regional tour in his capacity as ECOWAS Chairman.

Following a closed-door meeting, President Ouattara hailed Bio as a “close friend” and expressed Côte d’Ivoire’s full support for his leadership, despite the significant challenges facing the bloc.

He also backed Bio’s push to deepen cooperation with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

President Bio said the tour aims to unify ECOWAS, address security concerns, and rebuild ties with AES nations. Discussions also focused on accelerating regional integration and pursuing institutional reforms.

Bio praised Côte d’Ivoire’s enduring support for Sierra Leone, especially during its post-war peace process.