ECOWAS, ECOMOTI Ministers Converge on Abuja, Resolve to Strengthen Regional Trade and Economic Integration. By Raymond Enoch
Ministers of Trade, Industry, and Investments from across the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have converged on Abuja this week for their 4th Joint Meeting of ECOWAS Ministers of Trade and Industry (ECOMOTI).
The ECOMOTI Ministers meeting attracted key policymakers and experts, focused on evaluating and refining the region’s trade policy instruments in response to the evolving global economic landscape.
One of the primary objectives of the meeting was to assess the progress and effectiveness of ongoing regional initiatives, particularly the ECOWAS Common Investment Market (ECIM). Accordingly in-depth discussions were held on various reports from expert committees, which evaluated the current state of trade, industry, and investment within the region. This was crucial as the ministers worked to refine strategies aimed at enhancing regional economic integration and strengthening the competitiveness of West African economies on the global stage.
Mrs. Massandjé Toure-Litse, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, represented the ECOWAS Commission President, H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, underscoring the importance of the meeting. In her address, she highlighted the approaching 50th anniversary of ECOWAS in 2025 — a landmark milestone for the organization and a moment to reflect on the progress made over the past five decades in regional cooperation and integration.
“Over the years, ECOWAS has achieved remarkable strides in promoting economic development, peace, and stability in West Africa. This meeting represents another step towards ensuring that our collective efforts continue to yield positive results for our member states,” said Toure-Litse.
As the meeting progressed, ministers also deliberated on emerging global trade trends and their implications for the region. With the goal of improving intra-regional trade and fostering investment, the discussions were timely and reflective of ECOWAS’s commitment to adapting to the shifting global economy.
- The event was not just a policy meeting; it was a reflection of ECOWAS’s ongoing efforts to empower its member states and ensure a more unified and competitive West African economy. As the region celebrates its golden jubilee, the outcomes of this meeting will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of regional trade and industry for years to come.
