The ECOWAS Commission has paid tribute to former Commission President James Victor Gbeho following his death at the age of 91, describing him as a distinguished statesman whose contributions helped shape regional cooperation and peacebuilding in West Africa.
Ambassador Gbeho passed away on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at a hospital. The cause of death has not been made public.
In a statement issued from its headquarters in Abuja, the ECOWAS Commission praised the veteran Ghanaian diplomat for his decades of service to both Ghana and the wider West African region, highlighting his role in strengthening regional institutions and promoting integration among member states.
The Commission noted that during his tenure as President of the ECOWAS Commission from 2010 to 2012, Ambassador Gbeho provided leadership at a pivotal moment in the organisation’s evolution. He oversaw efforts aimed at consolidating reforms introduced after ECOWAS transitioned from an Executive Secretariat to a Commission, helping to reinforce the bloc’s institutional framework and regional influence.
Beyond his leadership at ECOWAS, Ambassador Gbeho played a significant role in conflict resolution efforts across the region. The Commission recalled his appointment as ECOWAS Special Representative to Liberia in 1995, where he contributed to initiatives designed to restore peace and constitutional order during the country’s civil conflict.
His diplomatic career spanned several decades and included service as Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, United Nations Special Representative for Somalia, and Member of Parliament for the Anlo Constituency.
According to ECOWAS, Ambassador Gbeho’s enduring commitment to diplomacy, peacebuilding and public service earned him widespread respect across the region and internationally.
The Commission extended condolences to his family, the Government and people of Ghana, President John Dramani Mahama, members of the diplomatic community and all who worked closely with him throughout his career.
As tributes continue to pour in, Ambassador Gbeho is being remembered as one of West Africa’s most accomplished diplomats, whose work helped advance regional unity and stability across the sub-region.
