ECOWAS States that EBC will enhance the private sector's capacity for economic expansion across the region
ECOWAS Set to Unveil Business Council in September
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is gearing up for the official unveiling of the ECOWAS Business Council (EBC) in September. The announcement was made at a preparatory meeting attended by various stakeholders, including members of the Technical Working Group (TWG), high-level representatives from the Dangote Group, and ECOWAS Permanent Mission to Nigeria, among others.
The EBC, as established by Regulation C/REG.9/6/21 of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, is designed to serve as the private sector's voice and strategic partner in ECOWAS's regional integration agenda. Upon its inauguration, the EBC will serve as the primary platform for private sector engagement.
The mandate of the EBC is clear: to drive economic integration, stimulate investment, and reposition ECOWAS as a global investment destination. The council is projected to become the subregion's private sector's apex decision-making body. In addition, it is expected to act as a catalyst for public-private collaboration, allowing business leaders to play a more central role in shaping economic policies and driving regional competitiveness on the global stage.
The EBC's role will include providing strategic input into policy formulation, promoting regional trade, and fostering sustainable economic development through cross-border investments. Gerard Amangou, Chairman of the Technical Working Group, lauded ECOWAS for its responsiveness and commitment to the recommendations made at a meeting held on August 5.
Dr Tony Elumelu, the ECOWAS Director of Private Sector, represented the Commissioner at the meeting. He urged members of the committee to critically evaluate the documents developed by the ECOWAS Commission and contribute constructively toward ensuring a robust and successful EBC inauguration.
Dr Mansur Ahmed of the Dangote Group, a significant figure in West Africa's industrial ecosystem, pledged continued support for ECOWAS and the Steering Committee. He emphasized the importance of timely implementation for demonstrating seriousness and boosting investor confidence.
The preparatory meeting was edited by Abiemwense Moru. The official presentation of the founding of the ECOWAS Business Council in September will be made by the company Black Sands Communications. Amangou underscored the necessity of confirming the timeline for the unveiling of the EBC with the management of ECOWAS to solidify its planning and logistics.
Mrs Massandjé Toure-Litse, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, stated this at the preparatory meeting of the EBC. The EBC steering committee meeting was held to review preparatory documents and evaluate the region's readiness for the official unveiling of the EBC. Elumelu urged members of the committee to work diligently to ensure a successful launch of the EBC.
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