Niger’s transitional leader accused Benin of harboring jihadist training camps and
supporting terrorism aimed at destabilizing Niger, leading to the closure of their
shared border. Benin’s Foreign Minister strongly denied the allegations,
reaffirming the country’s commitment to combating terrorism and defending
sovereignty. Despite the border closure, Benin reported strong economic growth in
2024.
Author: Tiffany Bright
ECOWAS Launches 50th Anniversary Celebrations in Cabo Verde
On May 26, 2025, ECOWAS officially launched the celebrations for its 50th
anniversary in Praia, Cabo Verde. The event gathered dignitaries, government
officials, diplomats, and ECOWAS representatives. In his keynote, Mr. Francis
Sempore emphasized the importance of reflection and renewed commitment to
regional integration. Cabo Verde’s Secretary of State, Mrs. Miryan Vieira,
highlighted ECREEE’s role in sustainable energy and called for people-centered
development. The jubilee celebrations will continue with educational programs,
youth engagement, and conferences on sustainable energy and maritime security.
ECOWAS aims to deepen regional unity and inspire future generations.
ECOWAS Seeks Reconciliation with Guinea-Bissau Amid Political Tensions
In an effort to ease tensions and reestablish dialogue with Guinea-Bissau,
ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray visited the country on
May 25–26, 2025, at the invitation of President Umaro Sissoco Embaló. The visit
comes after months of strained relations, including the expulsion of an ECOWAS
delegation in March due to disagreements over postponed elections. Embaló’s
decision to delay the presidential elections and seek reelection despite his term
ending triggered an institutional crisis. Discussions during the visit focused on
stabilizing the political climate, strengthening democratic institutions, and ensuring
transparent elections, scheduled for November 23, 2025. Dr. Touray also
reaffirmed ECOWAS's commitment to dialogue and peace across the region.
Gambia and Guinea-Bissau Deepen Media Cooperation to Foster Regional Unity
Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, Gambia’s Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting
Services, met with Guinea-Bissau’s Minister of Social Communications, Mr.
Florentino Dias, in Bissau to strengthen media collaboration between the two
nations. Accompanied by national broadcasting leaders, both parties discussed
joint initiatives in television, radio, and print, with a focus on implementing their
memorandum of understanding (MOU). The visit included a tour of Televisão da
Guiné-Bissau and set plans for citizens to access each other’s national news. Day
two of the mission will center on radio cooperation. The exchange highlights a
shared Pan-African vision of unity through access to accurate information.