ECOWAS Mourns Former Commission President James Victor Gbeho
ECOWAS praises the late Ghanaian diplomat as a key figure in regional integration, peacebuilding, and institutional reform across West Africa.
- ECOWAS has paid tribute to former Commission President James Victor Gbeho following his death
- He served as ECOWAS Commission President from 2010 to 2012 and played a key role in regional integration
- The bloc described him as a distinguished diplomat committed to peace, diplomacy, and public service.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has paid glowing tribute to former President of the ECOWAS Commission, Ambassador James Victor Gbeho, following news of his passing.
In a statement, the ECOWAS Commission expressed profound sorrow over the loss of the veteran Ghanaian diplomat, describing him as an accomplished statesman, respected regional leader, and steadfast advocate for peace and regional integration.
Ambassador Gbeho served as President of the ECOWAS Commission from February 18, 2010, to March 1, 2012, during a pivotal period of institutional consolidation following reforms that transformed the ECOWAS Executive Secretariat into a Commission. According to the regional bloc, his leadership was instrumental in deepening regional integration, strengthening the institution’s framework, and enhancing ECOWAS’ standing as one of Africa’s most successful regional organisations.
The Commission noted that Ambassador Gbeho’s commitment to ECOWAS extended beyond his tenure as President. In 1995, he was appointed ECOWAS Special Representative for Liberia, where he played a crucial role in efforts to restore peace, stability, and constitutional order in the country.
Throughout his distinguished diplomatic career, Ambassador Gbeho served in several high-profile national and international positions, including Ghana’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Minister for Foreign Affairs, and United Nations Special Representative for Somalia.
ECOWAS said he remained devoted to diplomacy, peacebuilding, regional cooperation, and public service throughout his life, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
The Commission extended its condolences to the family of the late diplomat, President John Dramani Mahama, the Government and people of Ghana, the diplomatic community across West Africa, and all those who had the privilege of working with him.
ECOWAS added that it joins them in mourning the loss of a distinguished diplomat whose contributions to Ghana, West Africa, and the international community will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude.
