ABUJA — Vice President Kashim Shettima has thrown Nigeria’s weight behind the proposed ECO single currency and expanded intra-regional trade, describing both as critical to unlocking West Africa’s economic potential.
Shettima stated this while representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Lungi, Sierra Leone.
In his address, the Vice President said Nigeria supports ongoing efforts to deepen economic integration across the sub-region, noting that stronger trade ties and a unified currency framework would enhance competitiveness and drive growth.
“Nigeria welcomes the ambition to expand intra-regional trade, enhance industrial competitiveness, and support the gradual implementation of the ECO single currency,” he said.
He stressed that sustainable prosperity in West Africa depends on increased trade, industrialisation, investment in regional value chains, and improved infrastructure connectivity.
According to him, building an integrated regional economy will position ECOWAS as a strong player in the global marketplace while boosting job creation and economic opportunities for citizens.
Shettima also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to removing trade barriers and promoting the free movement of goods, services and people across borders.
“Nigeria remains committed to initiatives that remove trade barriers, improve cross-border infrastructure, and create an enabling environment for businesses and investors to thrive,” he added.
The Vice President further noted that the ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration provides a practical roadmap for achieving these goals, aligning with broader plans to strengthen economic cooperation and regional resilience.
Stakeholders at the summit highlighted that effective implementation of the ECO currency and trade expansion policies could significantly boost non-oil exports, attract investment and accelerate economic diversification across West Africa.
Nigeria, as the region’s largest economy, reiterated its readiness to work with member states to drive the agenda and ensure that integration efforts translate into tangible benefits for citizens.
