(Monrovia, Liberia):The President of Liberia, H.E. Dr. George Manneh Weah said consensus building is cardinal for the sustenance of peace, development and growth of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Addressing the Extraordinary Summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Tuesday, February 2, 2021, Dr. Weah told his West African counterparts that building consensus inspire oneness and purpose amongst member nations.

“There will at times be complex decisions to be made but with oneness of mind and the good of the organization, togetherness is strength that can overcome any force”, Dr. Weah reminded the summit delegates.

The Summit held via videoconference highlighted the harmonization of ECOWAS participation in the forthcoming African Union (AU) Summit slated for this Saturday and Sunday (February 6 & 7, 2021) in Addis Ababa though via videoconference, and internal reforms within ECOWAS.

The Heads of State also discussed ways to enhance trade, commerce and economic activities with the region.

Dr. Weah called on his colleagues to unite if they are to conquer piracy and maritime related insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea and terrorism in the region, enhance trade, commerce and economic activities, and scoring success in any undertakings.

Both President Weah and Nigerian Vice President Osinbajo admonished their counterparts to work towards addressing the issue of Maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea. Vice President Osinbajo, who represented President Buhari at the summit, said piracy and maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea directly affect trade and commerce in West Africa and must be curtailed.

President Weah was joined at the summit by the Ministers Dee-Maxwell Saah Kemayah (Foreign Affairs), Trokon Kpui (State without Portfolio), Ledgerhood Rennie (Information, Culture and Tourism), Maritime Commissioner, Lenn Eugene Nagbe and Presidential Advisor, Emmanuel Shaw.

The Heads of State at the summit unanimously selected candidates to compete for vacant position at the forthcoming African Union Conference. Ghana President Addo Nana Dankwa Akufo-Addo will retain his position as ECOWAS Chairman for another one-year stint.