The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has appointed Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, as the pioneer Chairperson of the ECOWAS Business Council, a new platform aimed at mobilizing private sector investment and supporting regional economic integration.
The announcement was made by ECOWAS Commission President, Omar Touray, at the 95th Ordinary session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers in Abuja.
The Business Council will facilitate dialogue and partnership between the private sector, governments, and ECOWAS institutions to strengthen financial stability and economic resilience across the region.
ECOWAS aims to reduce reliance on foreign investment by encouraging intra-regional capital flow.
Touray highlighted challenges facing the West African Power Pool, including debts owed by national electricity companies, and called on member states to support efforts to recover these debts.
The regional bloc is also addressing security concerns, including terrorism, violent extremism, and unconstitutional changes of government.
