
Senegal has been selected to lead the ECOWAS Commission as president for 2026-2030, a first for the nation. This decision was announced after the 68th ordinary session of the Conference of Heads of State and Government in Abuja, Nigeria, on December 14, 2025. The Ministry of African Integration, Foreign Affairs and Senegalese Abroad released a statement confirming this designation, which resulted from consultations among ECOWAS member states. Senegalese authorities view this as a sign of trust from the community, particularly as West Africa faces significant political, security, and economic challenges. The ministry stated this reflects Senegal’s standing within the sub-regional organization and its dedication to strengthening community governance and regional integration. The presidency of the ECOWAS Commission is a strategic role, overseeing the implementation of decisions from the Heads of State, coordinating community policies, and monitoring regional programs for a four-year term. Senegal has expressed gratitude to member states and reaffirmed its commitment to ECOWAS, peace, stability, and development in West Africa.
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A tweet from Madiambal Diagne, head of Avenir Communication group, alerted Senegalese people to Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko’s trip to Abu Dhabi, sparking questions due to official silence. Diagne detailed Sonko’s departure from Léopold-Sédar-Senghor airport on a Dassault Falcon 8X private jet. The newspaper L’As also highlighted the controversy. Diagne further stated Sonko moved his belongings from the Petit Palais to his home in Cité Keur Gorgui, raising speculation. El Malick Ndiaye, President of the National Assembly, defended Sonko, stating he went to "get money." This denial, however, fueled further questions as the trip was not mentioned in official communications or the Council of Ministers’ communique. The use of a private jet also raised concerns about financial coherence, given the country's economic situation. L’As called for urgent clarification from authorities regarding the trip's transparency and funding. The article concludes that the trip, marked by a journalist's announcement, a luxury aircraft, and lack of official information, has created more questions than answers.
CAN 2025 is setting new records before kick-off, with revenues from sponsorships and ticket sales reaching nearly 300 million euros. This figure matches the total from the previous four editions combined, as reported by journalist Lassana Camara. Morocco's commitment, including modernized stadiums, a massive communication campaign, and an aggressive commercial strategy, is credited for this success. Geographical proximity to Europe has driven significant ticket purchases by African diasporas. High demand for matches involving the Atlas Lions and Algeria has created scarcity, while new international sponsors have joined. The enthusiasm builds on the momentum from CAN 2023 in Ivory Coast. For CAF, these figures confirm African football has reached a new level. Morocco is poised to deliver a historically lucrative and media-followed edition, showcasing African football's continuous rise and the continent's capacity to host major international sporting events. CAN 2025 could be one of Africa's most spectacular competitions.
BreakingECOWAS expressed deep concern on Saturday, December 7, 2025, over reports of a military coup attempt in the Republic of Benin. The ECOWAS Commission strongly condemned this coup, calling it contrary to the Constitution and the will of the Beninese people. The regional organization praised the joint efforts of the Beninese government and the republican army to restore order and secure the country. ECOWAS warned the perpetrators, holding them responsible for any loss of life or property damage. The organization reiterated its readiness to support the Beninese government and people, including deploying its regional rapid intervention force, to defend the Constitution and territorial integrity. The situation in Benin remains under close surveillance, with local authorities maintaining strict control over security forces and the population.
Must ReadThe Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar UCAD faces continued tension as student associations maintain their directive to suspend educational activities and implement Days without Tickets JST in university restaurants. This decision follows two exchanges with Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, which failed to convince student representatives to end their movement. While some demands regarding scholarships, administrative delays, and support for Master 2 students and repeaters were met, the immediate recall of Master 1 students was refused. The government proposed a staggered payment over the academic year 2026-2027, a solution the Collective deemed insufficient. The discussions also highlighted issues such as the absence of some students in the scholarship department’s database due to registration problems. Despite the Prime Minister's mediation efforts, students state their essential concerns remain unanswered.