The appointment was announced by ECOWAS President Omar Touray, who said the council is expected to serve as a central platform for mobilising investment, coordinating cross-border trade initiatives and strengthening cooperation among West African economies. Touray described Dangote as a fitting choice, noting his long-standing presence in key African markets and his record of leading large-scale industrial projects across the continent.
The ECOWAS Business Council forms part of broader reforms aimed at improving the region’s competitiveness and aligning private investment with the organisation’s development goals. Officials say the council will provide structured dialogue between policymakers and business leaders, with a focus on removing trade barriers, improving infrastructure links and promoting regional value chains.
Dangote’s leadership is expected to guide the council through its formative phase as it defines priorities, engages member states and builds frameworks to support enterprises operating across the region.
