The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), has called on the newly elected chairman of the ECOWAS Heads of States, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria to urgently address some of the challenges affecting intra West African trade.
NACCIMA in a congratulatory message signed by its President, Dele Kelvin Oye, said his election was coming at a time when ECOWAS region is positioning its Member States to be well integrated into African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
According to NACCIMA, “Your Nigeria is expected to play a vital role in ECOWAS as well as in the continent being the largest economy in Africa. The country’s leadership role in both economic integrations is very vital. A lot is expected from Nigeria now more than ever in the history of the country among its peers in Africa.”
NACCIMA further charged Tinubu to use his great credentials as a seasoned politician and astute administrator, with an enviable track record in governance and leadership to drive the economic development of the sub-region.
The message reads:
“We are fully confident that you will bring your wealth of experience and expertise to bear on the challenges currently facing the region.
“Mr. President, while we congratulate you on your appointment, we must also remind you of the urgent need to address some of the challenges affecting intra West African trade. There are still several stumbling blocks preventing the free flow of goods and services within the region, such as cumbersome procedures, high cost of transportation, bribery and corruption at border posts, along with a host of other challenges.
“These issues have limited the growth of trade within the region, thus hindering the economic prosperity of the West African people.
However, we are optimistic that as Chairman of ECOWAS, you will be able to tackle these issues head-on and implement policies that will facilitate ease of doing business within the region. We are fully committed to supporting you in your efforts to promote economic growth, trade and investment in West Africa.
“Once again, congratulations on your appointment. We look forward to collaborating with ECOWAS under your leadership to promote trade, investment and prosperity within the region.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was elected chairman of the ECOWAS Heads of States at the 63rd Ordinary session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States held on Sunday at Guinea-Bissau.