Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are gathering in Abuja on Sunday for a high-level summit expected to address pressing political, economic and security challenges confronting the sub-region.

According to the Sierra Leonean Presidency, recent developments in Guinea-Bissau and Benin will feature prominently in the discussions.

The meeting will be chaired by President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, who is also set to steer a special debate on the future of the regional bloc.

Leaders are expected to reflect on the direction of ECOWAS amid evolving political transitions, democratic setbacks and security threats across parts of West Africa.

The summit agenda includes the presentation of the 2025 Annual Report on the State of the Community, a review of the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme to strengthen intra-regional trade, as well as briefings on regional security, mediation efforts, and Guinea’s ongoing political transition.

Member states are also expected to deliberate on measures to reinforce cooperation and stability within the bloc.

President Maada Bio has already arrived in Abuja alongside the presidents of Ghana, Senegal and The Gambia.

The summit is expected to conclude with the adoption of a final communiqué and a joint press conference outlining key resolutions and the way forward for the West African sub-region.