The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched an ambitious 25-year master plan aimed at transforming the region’s infrastructure, with a projected investment of $131 billion. The plan, which was unveiled during the 50th ECOWAS Anniversary celebration in Accra, is designed to promote regional integration and stimulate economic development through a series of large-scale infrastructure projects across all 15 member states.
The announcement was made by Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, who emphasized that the plan is a critical step in making West Africa more connected, competitive, and economically resilient.
A Vision for Regional Connectivity and Economic Growth
“The 25-year master plan encompasses 201 regional projects aimed at addressing infrastructure gaps and enhancing cross-border connectivity,” Dr. Touray stated. “The total estimated cost of these projects is about $131 billion, targeting vital sectors such as transport, energy, telecommunications, and water resources.”
Dr. Touray highlighted that the master plan includes major projects designed to improve infrastructure and trade across West Africa. Key initiatives include the Lagos–Abidjan Corridor Highway, the Abidjan–Praia Corridor Highway, as well as several secondary corridors and joint border posts.
Key Projects and Regional Impact
Among the most significant projects is the Lagos–Abidjan Corridor Highway, a landmark infrastructure development spanning 1,028 kilometers. It is one of the largest infrastructure projects ever undertaken on the continent. According to Dr. Touray, $42 million has already been successfully mobilized to fund the technical preparatory studies for the Lagos-Abidjan project.
These major infrastructure developments are intended to boost trade, facilitate the free movement of people and goods, and reduce trade barriers, all of which are central to the long-term economic growth objectives of the region.
Supporting Trade Liberalization Across West Africa
The master plan is closely linked to the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS), a preferential trade arrangement that has supported over 15,000 companies across West Africa. Since its launch, the scheme has benefited these companies by providing preferential treatment on more than 50,000 products within the region.
By integrating these new infrastructure projects with the ETLS, ECOWAS aims to foster a more efficient and cohesive regional economy, making it easier to trade and invest across borders.
Looking Ahead: A Stronger, More Integrated Region
The ECOWAS Commission’s 25-year master plan is a bold and forward-looking initiative that positions West Africa to emerge as a more resilient and competitive region. As these infrastructure projects progress, the hope is to not only enhance regional integration but also provide a foundation for economic growth that benefits all member states.
Source: Thepressradio.com| Ogyem Solomon| 2025
