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  United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed last Sunday called on West African leaders to unite around three fundamental priorities for the future of Africa: securing peace and security, accelerating inclusive economic development, and strengthening Africa’s leadership and voice in global affairs. The DSG delivered the message at the Summit of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Lungi, Sierra Leone. Addressing Heads of State and Government, the DSG emphasised that peace remains the foundation upon which all other ambitions for Africa must be built, warning that the growing threat of terrorism stretching from the Sahel to the Gulf of Guinea requires urgent, coordinated action led by Africans and supported by the international community. She reiterated the United Nations’ support for African-led solutions under the leadership of the African Union and regional organisations, including ECOWAS. “The solutions must be led by Africa,” she said, underscoring that international partners have a responsibility to provide political, financial and security support in ways defined by the region itself.Her second conviction focused on the inseparable link between peace and economic development. Noting that prosperity is a prerequisite for lasting peace, she urged the region to invest in jobs, infrastructure, clean energy, regional trade and digital innovation, while advancing reforms to the global financial system that better support Africa’s development aspirations. She highlighted opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area, the continent’s vast renewable energy potential and its strategic role in supplying critical minerals needed for the global green transition. Madam Amina Mohammed also stressed the importance of equipping Africa’s young people with the skills, technologies and opportunities needed to thrive in an increasingly digital and AI-driven global economy.Her third conviction centred on Africa’s role in shaping global decisions rather than simply responding to them. She called on African countries to strengthen their collective voice in international forums, ensure greater coordination on peace and security matters, and continue demonstrating democratic governance rooted in African values and committed to human rights. “Africa must define its place in the world before others define it,” she said, emphasising that strong national institutions, accountable governance and public trust are essential to strengthening the continent’s influence on the global stage.The DSG praised the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, the outgoing Chair of ECOWAS, for guiding the regional bloc during a period of significant challenges and transition, and commended ECOWAS efforts to preserve regional cohesion and dialogue. She welcomed growing momentum toward renewed engagement among countries across the region and efforts to strengthen cooperation on shared security challenges.The DSG also held meetings with President Bio, the Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, and regional leaders to discuss regional peace and security, sustainable development, youth employment and strengthened multilateral cooperation.Madam DSG described ECOWAS as the ideal vehicle for advancing the three priorities she outlined, noting that a peaceful, prosperous and confident West Africa can help drive progress across the continent. She was accompanied by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Leonardo Santos Simão, reflecting the United Nations’ continued partnership with ECOWAS and its commitment to supporting peace, stability and sustainable development across West Africa and the Sahel.