By Fortune Abang

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment towards working closely with the diplomatic community to bolster the inclusive economic integration of West Africa.

Tuggar made this known on Tuesday in Abuja, during the stakeholders engagement with West African Ambassadors against the backdrop of the West Africa Economic Summit (WAES).

The summit which is scheduled to take place from June 20 to 21, 2025 in Abuja, is an initiative of President Bola Tinubu.

Tuggar said, “We convene to discuss an initiative that pertains to our shared future, one that is founded on mutual interest, collective prosperity and regional unity.

“Let me begin by extending our appreciation for the active role your embassies continue to play in fostering cooperation, trade and diplomatic solidarity among our nations.

“In the same way, we have invited your excellencies today to become key partners and champions of a unique moment in our region’s economic diplomacy.

“It is rooted in his firm conviction expressed during his inaugural address as ECOWAS Chairman, that; we will work collectively to pursue an inclusive economic integration of West Africa.

“This will serve as a warning to exploiters that our people have suffered enough.”

The minister explained the summit to be centered on a high-level, non-political and inclusive platform for West African economic integration.

He also mentioned that it would bring together Heads of State, Ministers, private sector leaders, development partners, youth innovators and entrepreneurs.

“Unlike past efforts rooted solely in institutional frameworks, WAES is grounded in the practical realities of our regional market and the immense potential of our people.

“The decision to convene WAES outside the traditional ECOWAS framework was intentional. It highlights the economic need to foster integration among all West African states, regardless of current regional affiliations. The message is straightforward: when we prosper together, we prosper better.

“WAES offers a rare opportunity for West African countries to take ownership of their economic destiny by confronting the persistent barriers to intra-regional trade, fragmented infrastructure and inconsistent regulatory environments.

“It provides a forum to articulate our common development priorities, promote scalable investments, and unlock youth-driven innovation.

“The wealth of the West African coast, our gold, our labour, our very people fueled empires and financed revolutions; yet we have been denied a fair stake in the prosperity we helped create,” he said.

He also said that while others developed on the back of Atlantic commerce, West Africa had remained short changed.

He restated that the sub-region would no longer be a spectator, rather it would stand at the threshold of a new Atlantic era of prosperity.

“This time, we will shape its terms, ensure equity, and West Africa will rise not as a resource base for others, but as a fully engaged and empowered actor in global trade and transformation.

“To achieve this and more, your full representation and active participation in this Summit are desirable and essential.

“The breadth and impact of WAES will be measured by the resolve of our collective voice and the diversity of our contributions. Let us see every flag of West Africa represented, every voice heard, and every country’s corporate sector showcased,” he added.

He further urged the ambassadors to encourage participation from their respective Heads of State, Ministers of Trade, Finance and Foreign Affairs, as well as the canvass involvement of their national business communities, chambers of commerce and startup ecosystems.

“This is a moment of shared responsibility. As the world undergoes geopolitical realignments and economic protectionism, we must stand as an example of how regional unity can deliver genuine, people-focused prosperity.

“We must ensure West Africa is economically relevant, strategically coordinated and globally competitive. In the coming days, our team will continue to reach out to your missions for updates, participation inputs and logistical coordination.

“We are relying on you not only to open doors but also to walk with us as partners in progress,” the minister said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba