ECOWAS Chairman Julius Maada Bio Calls for Strengthened Security and Fair African Representation at UN Security Council

ECOWAS Chairman Julius Maada Bio Calls for Strengthened Security and Fair African Representation at UN Security Council

On the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, ECOWAS Chairman, President Julius Maada Bio, called for enhanced security across West Africa and stressed the need for fairer representation of Africa in the United Nations Security Council.

He noted that 70 percent of decisions at the UN Security Council concern Africa, yet the continent is underrepresented at the decision-making level.

Addressing the situation of three military-run countries that withdrew from ECOWAS in January, President Bio said he is engaging with each nation to restore security in West Africa and promote regional economic integration.

Chairman Bio also emphasized Africa’s exclusion from permanent representation in international organizations, noting that the continent remains the only one without permanent seats at the UN Security Council.

“Africa’s representation at the United Nations is long overdue,” he stated. “Decisions about our future are being made without our input. We are seeking two permanent seats and two additional non-permanent seats to ensure our voice is heard.’’