The Senegalese government has stepped up diplomatic consultations across West Africa in support of General Birame Diop’s candidacy for the presidency of the ECOWAS Commission.
As part of the effort, Foreign Minister Cheikh Niang visited Lomé, where he was received by Togolese leader Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé and delivered a message from Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. During the meeting, Niang formally presented General Birame Diop as Senegal’s candidate to lead the executive body of the regional bloc.
The visit followed similar consultations in Freetown and Abidjan, where Senegal sought support from regional leaders ahead of key ECOWAS meetings.
The diplomatic campaign comes as Senegal prepares to assume leadership of the ECOWAS Commission for the 2026–2030 term, following a decision by West African leaders at the Abuja summit in December 2025.
Earlier stops on the tour included meetings with Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio and Ivorian Vice-President Tiémoko Meyliet Koné, where Dakar requested backing for General Diop’s confirmation.
Senegalese officials argue that Diop’s experience in security and regional affairs makes him well-positioned to help address the political and security challenges facing ECOWAS.
The consultations are also taking place amid expectations that President Faye could assume the bloc’s rotating chairmanship, further strengthening Senegal’s influence within the regional organization.
