Abuja, Nigeria — June 21, 2025
His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., President of the Republic of Liberia, delivered a keynote address at the 2025 West Africa Economic Summit (WAES), held at the Abuja International Conference Centre in Nigeria. The high-level event brought together Heads of State, economic policymakers, business leaders, and development stakeholders from across the sub-region.
In his address, President Boakai extended greetings on behalf of the people of Liberia and commended Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership as Chairperson of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, and for convening what he described as a “timely and strategic” summit during ECOWAS’s golden jubilee year.
Reflecting on the theme of economic transformation and regional integration, President Boakai stressed the need for renewed commitment and cooperation among member states. “Even after 50 years of our existence and work, the challenges we face are still present and complex, but they are not insurmountable,” he said.
He officially announced Liberia’s election to a Non-Permanent Seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2026–2027 term, calling it a “national honor” and a reflection of the region’s confidence in Liberia’s role in promoting peace and diplomacy. “We pledge to carry this mandate with humility and responsibility,” Boakai stated.
The Liberian leader reaffirmed his government’s strong support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), viewing it as a transformative platform for economic integration. He highlighted Liberia’s investment priorities in agriculture, port and logistics infrastructure, energy, and the digital economy. These initiatives, he said, are designed to strengthen Liberia’s role in regional and continental trade.
“Our budgetary priorities are increasingly focused on sustainable agriculture and rural transformation,” Boakai said, noting ongoing efforts to modernize the Freeport of Monrovia, expand electricity access, and build a robust digital economy.
President Boakai also emphasized Liberia’s commitment to ECOWAS policy harmonization, trade barrier reduction, and sub-regional cooperation through the Mano River Union. He cited the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development as a blueprint for economic reform, institutional strengthening, and improved public service delivery.
Touching on peace and stability, Boakai stressed that economic prosperity must be grounded in democratic governance and regional unity. He reiterated his call for renewed dialogue with ECOWAS member states that have taken divergent paths, urging reconciliation and reintegration.
“With Liberia’s ascension to the Security Council, we are determined to be a principled voice for the region,” he said, pledging Liberia’s commitment to advancing the shared values of ECOWAS.
President Boakai concluded with a call to action: “Let us seize this opportunity to deepen our collaboration, mobilize our collective resources, and transform the potential of our region into lasting progress for our people.”
The 2025 West Africa Economic Summit marks a pivotal moment for ECOWAS member states as they chart a path toward greater economic cooperation, peace, and shared prosperity.
