The ECOWAS Commission is exploring new frontiers in its pursuit of collaborating with the private sector across the West African subregion, to promote intra-community trade, enhance the free movement of goods and services as well as foster economic cooperation among Member States ultimately contributing to the development of the African continent.
In a significant move towards strengthening the collaboration with the private sector, President
Touray met with the Vice Chairman of Tropical General Investments (TGI) Group, Mr. Farouk Gumel, who led a high-level delegation from the company’s top management to visit the President.
ECOWAS Director of Private Sector Dr. Anthony Elumelu as well as the Economic Adviser to the President Hon. Mambury Njie were also in attendance.
The discussions focused on forming a strategic alliance with ECOWAS, to expand TGI Group’s operations across the region.
Currently, TGI Group has an established presence in Nigeria, Ghana, and Benin, and is seeking to strengthen its footprint within the ECOWAS market. TGI Group also sought the Commission’s cooperation in ensuring that it has access to ECOWAS markets and trade and integration policies to aid intra state operations.
Discussions also centred on leveraging ECOWAS institutions such as the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) to facilitate funding access and optimize business operations under ECOWAS trade and integration protocols. TGI Group also reaffirmed its commitment to driving economic advancement in West Africa through strategic investments, innovative business solutions, and sustainable development initiatives.
President Touray also held discussions separately with the Executive Chairman and CEO of Synergy Infrastructure Development and Investment Limited (SIDIL), Alhassan Dantata.
The ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digital post, Mr. Sedikou Douka was also present at the meeting. Discussions focused on expanding investments in renewable energy and emerging energy solutions to support sustainable growth in West Africa.
To further explore investment opportunities in key sectors across the West Africa subregion, President Touray is expected to meet with key business leaders to establish strategic partnerships that will drive economic growth, create employment opportunities and enhance trade relations within the subregion. In addition, President Touray is scheduled to attend the Lagos Business Forum to explore potential collaborations and attract investors from across West Africa.
These engagements reflect ECOWAS’ ongoing commitment to fostering a vibrant economic landscape, enhancing regional trade, and creating opportunities for sustainable investments in West Africa.
