Tinubu Advocates Shift to Production Economy for ECOWAS

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu urged a significant transformation in West Africa's economic integration from being a market for imported goods to establishing a regional production base. Speaking at the inauguration of the new ECOWAS headquarters in Abuja, he highlighted the importance of regional solidarity and cooperation among member states.

Tinubu, alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima and ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray, emphasized that the region must evolve beyond mere economic perspectives, especially in light of recent security challenges. He acknowledged the leadership of Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio during challenging times and expressed gratitude to the People's Republic of China for financing the headquarters project.

The new complex symbolizes renewed commitment to peace, industrialization, and shared prosperity in West Africa. Tinubu also noted the ongoing challenges the region faces, including terrorism, economic vulnerability, and climate change, while calling for renewed dialogue and unity among nations.