By Gloria Ikibah
The ECOWAS Parliament has ushered in a new era of leadership with the appointment of Dr Dédou Hemou as its Secretary-General, marking a significant transition within the regional legislative body.
The Togolese diplomat officially assumed office in Abuja on 9 April 2026, taking over from K. Bertin Somé, who stepped down at the end of last year after completing his tenure. 
Dr Hemou brings with him a wealth of experience built over years of service within ECOWAS institutions. Before his latest appointment, he represented the regional bloc at the European Union in Brussels, a role he held for nearly a decade.
His career within the organisation also includes key leadership positions at the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja, where he oversaw external relations and later handled political affairs, contributing to regional diplomacy and policy coordination.
Widely regarded as a seasoned diplomat, he combines practical experience with strong academic credentials, holding a doctorate in Economics as well as advanced training in strategy and diplomacy.
His appointment is expected to strengthen the administrative and diplomatic capacity of the ECOWAS Parliament as it navigates evolving regional challenges.
