ECOWAS Appoints Dangote as Pioneer Chairman of ECOWAS Business Council
December 11, 2025
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has appointed Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Group, as the first Chairman of the newly established 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 in Abuja.
The EBC is an independent regional platform created to empower the private sector, expand sub-regional trade, attract investment, and accelerate economic integration across West Africa. It is expected to bridge the gap between policymakers and businesses by providing structured engagement on regional development priorities.
Touray said Dangote’s selection was based on his extensive business influence and investment footprint across the ECOWAS region and the continent at large. He noted that interest in intra-regional investment had been rising among member states, referencing major economic and investment forums held this year in Senegal, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire.
He emphasised the growing need for West African countries to mobilise regional capital and reduce reliance on unpredictable foreign investment.
“With the kind of investments we’ve seen from Alhaji Dangote and other regional private-sector actors, ECOWAS can drive sustainable development from within, provided the right incentives and opportunities are given,” Touray said.
Through the EBC, ECOWAS aims to convene business leaders, government agencies, and regional institutions to strengthen collaboration, expand trade opportunities, and advance integration efforts across the sub-region.
The Council will also support partnerships that promote economic growth, investment, and shared prosperity among ECOWAS member states.
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