Shettima Unveils New Vision for West Africa as ECOWAS Opens Landmark Headquarters in Abuja

Shettima Unveils New Vision for West Africa as ECOWAS Opens Landmark Headquarters in Abuja

Abuja, Nigeria — Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for a bold economic transformation across West Africa, urging member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to shift from being primarily a regional marketplace to becoming a major regional production and manufacturing hub.

Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the official inauguration of the new ECOWAS Headquarters in Abuja, Shettima said the newly commissioned building represents far more than a modern office complex.

According to the Vice President, the headquarters is a powerful symbol of renewal, resilience, unity, and confidence in the future of West Africa, reflecting the region's determination to deepen cooperation and accelerate sustainable development.

West Africa Must Become a Production Powerhouse

Shettima stressed that lasting economic prosperity cannot be achieved by relying mainly on imports and trade alone. Instead, he said West African nations must prioritize industrialisation, local manufacturing, innovation, and value-added production to create jobs, attract investment, and strengthen economic resilience.

He emphasized that transforming ECOWAS into a production-driven economic bloc would unlock enormous opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, and millions of young people across the region.

"The future of West Africa lies in producing more of what we consume and exporting more of what we manufacture," he noted, highlighting the importance of building stronger regional industries.

New ECOWAS Headquarters Symbolises Unity and Progress

The Vice President described the new ECOWAS Headquarters in Abuja as a landmark that reflects the shared aspirations of member states for peace, stability, and economic integration.

He said the building should serve as a constant reminder of the bloc's commitment to collective growth and inspire leaders to strengthen cooperation in addressing regional challenges.

According to Shettima, deeper collaboration among ECOWAS member countries is essential to expanding intra-African trade, improving infrastructure, boosting investment, and enhancing regional security.

Call for Stronger Regional Cooperation

Shettima urged West African governments to renew their commitment to the founding ideals of ECOWAS by working together to build a more prosperous, self-reliant, and economically competitive region.

He said stronger partnerships would position ECOWAS as a leading force for investment, manufacturing, trade, innovation, and peace across Africa.

The Vice President added that the newly inaugurated headquarters should mark the beginning of a new chapter for the regional bloc—one focused on inclusive economic growth, sustainable development, and shared prosperity for all member states.

A New Chapter for ECOWAS

The inauguration of the new ECOWAS Headquarters comes at a critical time as West Africa seeks to strengthen regional integration, overcome economic challenges, and create new opportunities for development.

With renewed political commitment and greater collaboration, regional leaders believe ECOWAS can evolve into a stronger economic powerhouse capable of driving long-term prosperity, industrial growth, and stability throughout West Africa.

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