The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says, the West Africa Economic Summit seeks to harmonise trade policies, mobilise infrastructure funding, promote inclusive growth, and enhance resilience through institutional reforms and global partnerships.
Addressing newsmen in Abuja, the Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar explained that the summit was part of efforts to reshape the region’s economic trajectory and promote deeper integration.
The Minister reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to the ECOWAS vision of a borderless, peaceful, and prosperous subregion.
Under the theme “Unlocking Trade and Investment Opportunities in the Region,” the summit is a high-level, action-driven gathering that will bring together Heads of State, private sector leaders, youth innovators, and development partners to chart a new economic course for West Africa.
According to Ambassador Tuggar, WAES 2025 is distinct from other regional conferences as it places a strong emphasis on the private sector, youth inclusion, and sustainable development, aligning with both the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Agenda 2063.
“This is the first summit of its kind in West Africa focused on private sector-led integration,” Tuggar stated, adding that the WAES will also serve as a platform for listening to business stakeholders, especially regarding investment security and regional economic stability.
He listed Key highlights of the summit to include:
– Presidential Roundtable and CEO Forum for joint economic dialogue
– The WAES Deal Room for Business-to-Government (B2G) and Business-to-Business (B2B) investment deals
– A West Africa Business Expo (WABE) featuring 100+ investment-ready SMEs
– Youth and Cultural Empowerment Series, including art exhibitions and innovation pitches
Addressing security concerns, Ambassador Tuggar emphasized Nigeria’s leadership role in stabilizing the region, referencing the ECOWAS Security Fund (ESF) and the Regional Partnership for Democracy (RPD) aimed at tackling institutional weaknesses and disinformation.
He called on regional leaders, civil society actors, private investors, and the media to actively participate in the summit and help showcase West Africa’s transformation journey to the world.
“Let’s tell the world our story,” the Minister concluded.
