The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has appointed the Chairman of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, as the inaugural Chairman of the ECOWAS Business Council (EBC).
ECOWAS President, Dr. Omar Touray, announced the appointment during the 95th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers held on Wednesday in Abuja.
The EBC is an independent platform created to strengthen the private sector, promote sub-regional trade, drive investment, and support economic integration across West Africa. It is designed to serve as a bridge between businesses and policymakers within the region.
Touray said Dangote was chosen for the role due to his extensive business experience and his influence across the ECOWAS sub-region and the African continent. He added that efforts to promote intra-regional investments were already gaining momentum, citing major economic events held this year in Senegal, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire.
According to him, the rising appetite for investment within West Africa highlights the need to mobilise regional capital rather than rely solely on foreign funding. He expressed confidence that the private sector, led by key actors such as Dangote, could play a pivotal role in the region’s development if given the right incentives and support.
Through the EBC, ECOWAS aims to bring private sector leaders together to strengthen economic integration and foster development. The Council is expected to facilitate dialogue and partnerships among businesses, government agencies, and ECOWAS institutions.
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