By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, has arrived in Abuja, Nigeria, to participate in critical discussions at the 2025 West Africa Economic Summit (WAES) and the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government Session.
Taking place from June 20 to 21, this high-level summit brings together regional heads of state, influential business leaders, and development partners to address some of West Africa’s most pressing economic challenges and opportunities.
Held under the theme “West Africa First – Seizing the Moment,” WAES 2025 aims to strengthen regional collaboration, promote economic integration, and foster sustainable development across member states. President Bio joins a distinguished assembly of West African leaders committed to driving collective progress in the face of global economic uncertainty and internal regional challenges.
This year’s summit is particularly significant as West Africa stands at a critical economic crossroads. Discussions are expected to focus on developing innovative strategies that prioritize regional interests, harness the region’s vast natural and human resources, and enhance resilience in an increasingly complex global economy.
The Abuja summit features a range of high-level panel sessions, strategic dialogues, and networking events designed to facilitate cross-sector engagement. It also provides a rare opportunity for business leaders to interact directly with policymakers creating an enabling environment for investment, public-private partnerships, and long-term growth.
As the region grapples with ongoing issues such as economic volatility, security threats, and political instability, the outcomes of this summit could significantly shape West Africa’s economic future.
The strong emphasis on regional cooperation serves as a timely reminder that unified action remains key to overcoming challenges and unlocking the region’s full potential. Stakeholders are expected to emerge from the summit with renewed commitments to a shared vision for prosperity and stability in West Africa.
