President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has announced the Nigeria’s readiness to convene the West Africa Economic Summit (WAES) 2025 to unlock opportunities in trade and investment.
The Summit will take place between June 20 and 21 at the Abuja International Conference Centre (AICC).
This landmark regional event according to the President, will serve as a pivotal platform to unlock trade and investment opportunities, strengthen regional integration, and empower West Africa’s youth, positioning the region for inclusive and sustainable prosperity.
Theme: “West Africa Economic Summit: Unlocking Trade and Investment Opportunities in the Region”
”WAES 2025 will bring together regional Heads of State, Ministers, investors, CEOs, SMEs, development partners, youth innovators, and media stakeholders to deliver actionable solutions to the region’s most pressing economic challenges. The summit aligns with Nigeria’s revitalized foreign policy agenda, the 4D strategy — Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora — with a strong emphasis on leveraging West Africa’s demographic potential and driving inclusive development through trade, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Key Highlights of WAES 2025
• High-Level Policy Dialogue: A Presidential Roundtable and Private Sector CEO Forum will culminate in a Communiqué outlining strategic priorities for trade and investment across the region.
• Investment and Partnership Opportunities: The WAES Deal Room will host targeted B2G and B2B sessions aimed at securing at least five landmark investment deals or PPPs.
• West Africa Business Expo: A showcase of investment-ready SMEs and regional projects designed to promote intra-African value chains and entrepreneurship.
• Cultural and Youth Empowerment: Events such as the West Africa Art Exhibition and Innovation Pitch will spotlight the region’s creative economy and youth potential.
A Vision for a Unified and Prosperous West Africa
“WAES 2025 will address regional priorities including economic resilience, youth employment, infrastructure development, and trade facilitation.
“By advancing peace, good governance, and cross-border integration, the summit seeks to establish West Africa as a globally competitive economic bloc.”
