President Joseph Nyuma Boakai of Liberia addressed the inaugural West Africa Economic Summit in Abuja, Nigeria, emphasizing Liberia’s dedication to regional economic integration and sustainable development. Speaking at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, President Boakai commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for hosting this significant event focused on regional economic challenges.
The summit gathered ECOWAS Heads of State, economists, policymakers, and business leaders under the theme “Unlocking West Africa’s economic potential.” President Boakai noted that the summit coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Community and the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government. He described it as a strategic platform for economic transformation: “The challenges we face are complex, but not insurmountable.”
Highlighting Liberia’s recent election to a Non-Permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2026–2027, President Boakai committed to promoting peace and regional solidarity. He expressed gratitude to ECOWAS for supporting Liberia’s bid for this position.
President Boakai outlined Liberia’s development agenda aligning with regional integration goals. He identified investment priorities in agriculture, port modernization, energy access, and digital economy to enhance participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The Liberian leader also emphasized Liberia’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development as a means to drive growth and position Liberia as a trade hub.
In his address, President Boakai urged renewed engagement with ECOWAS member states that have exited: “We must keep the door open for reconciliation.” He called on regional leaders to collaborate on removing trade barriers and investing in people to achieve economic freedom across West Africa.
ECOWAS leaders will continue discussions at the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government at Abuja’s Presidential Villa.