The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has appointed Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Group, as the first Chairman of the ECOWAS Business Council (EBC).
The announcement was made by ECOWAS President, Dr. Omar Touray, during the 95th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers held on Wednesday in Abuja.
According to DAILY POST, the EBC is an independent platform created to strengthen the private sector, enhance regional trade, encourage investment, and drive economic integration across West Africa. It is designed to close the gap between businesses and policymakers in the region.
Dr. Touray said Dangote was chosen for the role due to his extensive business experience across West Africa and the African continent. He noted that interest in intra-regional investment has been rising among member states.
He highlighted several economic forums held this year—such as Forum Senegal Invest, the West African Economic Summit in Nigeria, and the ‘Invest in District Savanes’ forum in Côte d’Ivoire—as evidence of growing regional investment activity.
“This growing appetite for intra-regional investment shows the importance of mobilising capital within our region instead of relying on uncertain foreign investments.
“With the scale of investments made by people like Alhaji Dangote, our regional private sector can lead the development of our Community, provided we offer the right incentives and opportunities,” he said.
Through the EBC, ECOWAS aims to bring private-sector players together to discuss regional development and economic integration. The Council will also promote collaboration between businesses, government agencies, and ECOWAS institutions.
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