New apex body to boost trade in West Africa
Muhammed S. Bah
Arrangements are in full swing for the inauguration of the 21-member ECOWAS Business Council (EBC) in September 2025. The Council, set to become the apex private sector decision-making body for the ECOWAS Community, will spearhead efforts to boost economic growth, attract investment, and enhance the region’s competitiveness as a preferred business destination.
In the official press statement of the ECOWAS, the decision to proceed with the launch was confirmed during the latest meeting of the Technical Working Group (TWG) on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
Speaking at the opening, ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Mrs. Massandjé Toure-Litse, said the EBC will be instrumental in accelerating private sector participation in regional integration.
“The ECOWAS Business Council is more than just an advisory body. It is the driving force that will mobilize our private sector to take ownership of regional economic integration.” Mrs. Massandjé Toure-Litse, ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture.
Represented by Dr. Tony Luka Elumelu, Director of Private Sector, the Commissioner described the meeting as “an important milestone” in realizing a vision endorsed by the ECOWAS Council of Ministers under Regulation C/REG.9/6/21. She called on members to carefully review the Commission’s preparatory documents and “offer constructive input to guarantee a smooth and successful launch.”
Chairman of the TWG, Mr. Gerard Amangou, commended the Program Directorate for implementing the recommendations from the previous meeting held on August 5, 2025.
“We must now confirm the proposed launch date with the ECOWAS Commission’s management and ensure that all logistics are in place.” Gerard Amangou, Chairman, Technical Working Group
From the private sector, Engr. Dr. Mansur Ahmed of the Dangote Group stressed the importance of swift action.
“Time is of the essence. The Dangote Group remains committed to supporting the ECOWAS Commission and the Steering Committee in achieving the Council’s objectives.” Engr. Dr. Mansur Ahmed, Dangote Group
The one-day meeting brought together representatives from the Office of the President, the Dangote Group, the ECOWAS Permanent Mission to Nigeria, and the TWG. Participants reviewed draft documents and assessed overall readiness for the September launch.
Once inaugurated, the ECOWAS Business Council will serve as a central platform for private sector engagement, facilitating policy dialogue, and promoting intra-regional trade and investment across ECOWAS Member States.
The ECOWAS Business Council at a Glance
Mandate:
Established by the ECOWAS Council of Ministers under Regulation C/REG.9/6/21, the EBC is designed to mobilize private sector involvement in the region’s economic integration agenda.
Core Functions:
Advise ECOWAS on private sector development and policy direction.
Facilitate dialogue between governments and business leaders.
Promote intra-regional trade and investment.
Strengthen the region’s competitiveness as a business destination.
Drive initiatives for economic diversification and job creation.
The Council is composed of 21 members drawn from leading private sector actors across ECOWAS Member States, representing key industries including manufacturing, finance, agriculture, energy, and services.
Strategic Importance:
By providing a unified voice for the private sector, the EBC will influence policy reforms, promote trade facilitation, and attract regional and international investments. It will also work to position West Africa as a competitive player in the global economy.
