AfDB and ECOWAS Host Technical Session to Advance Regional Integration in West Africa
The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission held a high-level technical session on April 8, 2025, in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, aimed at enhancing regional integration across West Africa.
Chaired by Nnenna Nwabufo, Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery at the AfDB, the session brought together members of the Bank’s Board of Directors and Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, to review the region’s integration progress and set new priorities amid evolving challenges.
West Africa, which contributes 27% of Africa’s total GDP—roughly $700 billion—continues to lead the Africa Regional Integration Index. Despite persistent hurdles, both institutions affirmed that the region is well-positioned to capitalize on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Dr. Touray praised the strong collaboration between the ECOWAS Commission and the Bank, highlighting joint efforts in infrastructure, energy, and economic governance. He cited key initiatives such as the Mali-Mauritania power interconnection and the Abidjan-Lagos corridor as flagship projects that demonstrate the impact of regional integration.
Calling for increased investment, Dr. Touray urged the AfDB to intensify its support for cross-border infrastructure and initiatives that link peace, security, and development. He stressed that solidarity and partnership—both within West Africa and with global actors—remain crucial.
Board members acknowledged the success of ECOWAS in facilitating the free movement of people and goods but noted that intra-regional trade remains low, accounting for just 9% of imports and 10% of exports. They proposed measures such as removing non-tariff barriers, boosting intra-community trade, enhancing collaboration with other regional bodies like SADC, and empowering the private sector to tackle poverty in a resource-rich region.
The session, described as timely and informative, deepened the Bank’s understanding of regional dynamics and reaffirmed the shared commitment to accelerating integration and inclusive development.
In closing, Nwabufo thanked Dr. Touray for his contributions and reaffirmed the Bank’s readiness to support ECOWAS’ strategic priorities, particularly through its Nigeria Country Department and other regional platforms.
