Abuja, Nigeria – June 21, 2025 – Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., delivered a powerful address at the inaugural West Africa Economic Summit (WAES) today, reaffirming Liberia’s steadfast commitment to regional economic integration, sustainable development, and peace across West Africa.
Speaking during the High-Level Panel session at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, President Boakai commended Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for convening the landmark summit, the first of its kind to directly confront the region’s pressing economic challenges. The summit, held under the theme “Unlocking West Africa’s Economic Potential,” brought together ECOWAS Heads of State, policymakers, economists, and business leaders.
The event also coincides with two significant milestones: the 50th Anniversary of ECOWAS and the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government. President Boakai hailed the summit as a timely and strategic platform for launching new pathways to economic transformation in the region.
“The challenges we face are complex, but not insurmountable,” the Liberian leader declared.
President Boakai used the opportunity to highlight Liberia’s recent election to a Non-Permanent Seat on the United Nations Security Council (2026–2027), describing it as a testament to Liberia’s growing influence in global diplomacy. He pledged to use the position to advance peace, dialogue, and regional solidarity, and expressed gratitude to ECOWAS leaders for their full support in securing the seat.
In outlining Liberia’s national development strategy, President Boakai emphasized strategic priorities aligned with ECOWAS’ broader economic agenda—particularly in agriculture, energy access, port modernization, and digital infrastructure. He spotlighted Liberia’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, which he said is designed to drive economic reforms, attract investment, and boost trade across the Mano River and ECOWAS regions.
Boakai stressed Liberia’s commitment to deeper participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), noting that unlocking intra-African trade is key to long-term prosperity.
The President also made a heartfelt appeal for reconciliation with ECOWAS member states that have exited the community, calling for renewed dialogue and unity.
“We must keep the door open for reconciliation,” he urged. “Only through solidarity can we achieve lasting peace and shared economic freedom.”
As Liberia strengthens its global standing, President Boakai called on fellow regional leaders to take bold, collective action—removing trade barriers, investing in human capital, and transforming shared ambition into opportunity for all.
The ECOWAS Heads of State are expected to reconvene on Saturday, June 22, for the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government at the Old Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
