By: Saidu Jalloh
The Executive Director of the National Investment Board (NIB), Dr. Edward Hinga Sandy, has been re-elected President of the ECOWAS Trade Promotion Organization (TPO) Network for the 2026-2027 term during the Network’s 6th Annual General Assembly, held in Dakar, Senegal, from July 6 to 9, 2026.
According to the National Investment Board, Dr. Sandy secured a renewed mandate with overwhelming support from member Trade Promotion Organizations (TPOs) across the ECOWAS region, reflecting the confidence member states have in his leadership and the achievements recorded during his first term in office.
The NIB stated that Dr. Sandy’s initial tenure was characterized by efforts to strengthen regional cooperation, promote trade and investment, deepen institutional collaboration, and advance initiatives aimed at increasing intra-ECOWAS trade and private sector development. His leadership also focused on improving coordination among member Trade Promotion Organizations and supporting policies that facilitate regional economic integration.
The Board further noted that under Dr. Sandy’s stewardship, the ECOWAS TPO Network expanded strategic partnerships among member states, promoted investment opportunities, facilitated business linkages, and strengthened collaboration to enhance regional competitiveness. These efforts have contributed to advancing the ECOWAS vision of creating a more integrated and prosperous regional market through increased trade and investment.
According to the NIB, Dr. Sandy’s re-election reflects the confidence of member organizations in his ability to build on the progress achieved during his first term. It also signals the Network’s commitment to consolidating ongoing reforms while accelerating initiatives that support trade facilitation, investment promotion, and private sector growth across West Africa.
Congratulating Dr. Sandy on his re-election, the National Investment Board described the achievement as a testament to his visionary leadership and dedication to regional economic cooperation. The Board noted that his continued leadership of the ECOWAS TPO Network further enhances Sierra Leone’s visibility and influence within the regional trade and investment community.
The NIB reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with ECOWAS member states, regional institutions, development partners, and the private sector to promote investment, expand trade opportunities, attract sustainable investments, and support inclusive economic growth in Sierra Leone and across the ECOWAS region.
Dr. Sandy’s re-election is widely seen as a significant milestone for Sierra Leone, reinforcing the country’s growing role in shaping regional trade and investment policies while advancing ECOWAS’ agenda for economic integration, job creation, and sustainable development.