Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Ambassador Tuggar emphasized that the decision of these three nations to leave ECOWAS does not diminish their crucial role as partners in the region’s economic development. He revealed that special envoys, acting under the direct instruction of the Nigerian President, personally delivered the invitations, highlighting the importance Nigeria places on their involvement.
“While it is true that three countries in our region have chosen to depart from ECOWAS, this does not sever the bonds of trade, cooperation, and shared destiny that unite us as West Africans,” Tuggar stated. He reiterated, “These nations remain our neighbours, our partners, and integral stakeholders in the future of West Africa’s economic transformation.”
The West Africa Economic Summit, scheduled for June 20-21, 2025, at the newly renovated Abuja International Conference Centre, aims to bring together a diverse array of stakeholders. This includes heads of state, ministers, private sector leaders, development partners, and youth innovators from across West Africa and beyond. The event is strategically designed to unlock trade and investment opportunities, promote inclusive economic growth, and foster deeper regional integration.
Tuggar clarified that the invitations were not limited to ECOWAS member states but extended to all countries within the West African sub-region, specifically naming Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali. "We have extended this call not only to ECOWAS member states but to all countries within the West African sub-region including Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali inviting them to join us in Abuja for this landmark summit,” he asserted.
Addressing concerns about the continuity of trade and cooperation outside of ECOWAS membership, the Minister cited existing bilateral projects. He highlighted the ongoing Nigeria-Niger Joint Commission, which continues to advance development initiatives between the two nations, demonstrating that "Trade does not stop because of membership status." He further noted that "Similarly, business activities, cross-border trade, and infrastructure collaborations with Burkina Faso and Mali remain ongoing.”
The summit is designed to transcend traditional state-centric approaches by actively involving the private sector and youth innovators, recognizing their pivotal role in regional economic integration. Ambassador Tuggar concluded by stating, “This summit reflects Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the vision of a peaceful, borderless, and economically integrated West Africa. We invite all regional stakeholders, regardless of current political alignments, to join us in shaping a prosperous future for the region.”
The 2025 West Africa Economic Summit is set to feature a comprehensive agenda, including a presidential roundtable, CEO forum, business-to-government and business-to-business deal room, investment expos, and cultural and youth empowerment events. It is anticipated to serve as a crucial platform for enhancing economic cooperation and accelerating growth across the West African sub-region.