Aliko Dangote has been appointed the pioneer head of the ECOWAS Business Council, a new platform aimed at boosting private sector investment and driving regional economic integration.
The announcement was made by ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray at the opening of the 95th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers in Abuja. Touray highlighted Dangote’s extensive experience across West Africa and Africa at large as a key reason for his selection.
“The Council will bring together private sector leaders, governments, and ECOWAS institutions to foster dialogue, partnerships, and collaborative efforts for the development and integration of our region,” Touray said.
Sierra Leone’s Foreign Affairs Minister and Chairperson of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, Timothy Kabba, called on West African nations to deepen cooperation to tackle security, economic, and democratic challenges.
During the session, which runs through Friday, ministers will review memoranda covering the Community’s work programme and budget, financial standing, implementation of the Community levy protocol, and audit reports. Discussions will also focus on monetary integration, resource mobilisation, and activating a regional counter-terrorism force.
Dangote’s leadership is expected to bring private sector insights to the forefront, aligning business interests with ECOWAS’ broader goals for regional growth and stability.
