The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has appointed former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), as head of its Election Observation Mission for the forthcoming presidential election in Côte d’Ivoire.
According to a statement released by ECOWAS, the election is scheduled to take place on October 25, 2025, while the regional body’s observation team will be deployed from October 19 to 29, 2025, in line with the provisions of the ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance (2001).
The mission, which will comprise election experts, political analysts, and civil society representatives drawn from across West Africa, is tasked with monitoring the electoral process to ensure transparency, credibility, and adherence to democratic standards.
The appointment of Prof. Osinbajo underscores ECOWAS’ commitment to promoting peaceful, free, and fair elections in the region,” the statement read. “The Mission will observe all stages of the electoral process and engage with key stakeholders to support democratic consolidation in Côte d’Ivoire.”
Osinbajo, a respected scholar, lawyer, and advocate of democratic governance, previously served as Nigeria’s Vice President from 2015 to 2023. He has also played active roles in international development and governance initiatives across Africa.
ECOWAS noted that the deployment of the Observation Mission forms part of its broader efforts to prevent electoral disputes and strengthen democratic institutions in member states.
The forthcoming Côte d’Ivoire election will see five officially approved candidates contesting for the presidency amid calls for peaceful and inclusive participation from political actors and civil society groups.
Osinbajo is expected to submit a comprehensive report on the Mission’s findings and recommendations to the ECOWAS Commission after the conclusion of the electoral process.
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