Abuja, 21 June 2025— Today’s 2025 West Africa Economic Summit in Abuja brought together leaders from all over the region, highlighting their shared commitment to promoting sustainable growth and economic integration. Significantly, President Bola Tinubu collaborated with his ECOWAS member state colleagues to develop a shared growth strategy for the continent.
Strategic Outcomes & Summit Highlights
AfCFTA Trade Growth
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework was praised by keynote speakers, who predicted that tariff reductions and simplified trade facilitation would boost intra-ECOWAS exports by 30% over the following five years.
Fund for Connectivity: $10 billion
In order to close transportation gaps and promote cross-border trade, delegates approved the establishment of the West Africa Connectivity Fund, which would focus on improvements to roads, railroads, and digital infrastructure.
Read Also: Just In: Tinubu Set to Attend West Africa Economic Summit (WAES)
Innovation in Fintech and Agribusiness
During a special session, fintech platforms that have already lowered smallholder lending rates by 40% were highlighted. This has improved regional food security by giving farmers access to affordable financing.
The 500 MW Sahel Solar Project
Plans for a 500 MW solar infrastructure that would span the Sahel belt were revealed by renewable energy experts, helping the region move closer to its renewable goals and lessen its reliance on fossil fuels.
Carbon-neutral industrial zones and sustainable mining practices were among the “Green Growth Pact” commitments made by Summit participants. Customs procedures will be standardized by a new cross-ministerial task force with the goal of reducing border delays by 20%.
Challenge of Youth Innovation
Leaders established an annual Innovation Challenge to support businesses in the fields of health, education, and climate resilience as a lasting legacy, enabling up-and-coming businesspeople in West Africa and strengthening the region’s position as a worldwide leader.
