ECOWAS declares State of Emergency in West Africa

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declared a state of emergency in the region in response to a recent wave of coups and failed military mutinies.

The announcement was made on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, by ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray during the 55th session of the Mediation and Security Council, held at the ministerial level in Abuja.

Touray noted that the recent events underscore the urgent need to reflect on the future of democracy and to bolster the security of the community.

The emergency declaration comes as West African nations confront political instability, raising concerns about the resilience of democratic governance in the sub-region.