Minister of Steel Development Welcomes Benin President, Patrice Talon to West African Economic Summit

…Reaffirms President Tinubu’s Pledge to National and Regional Economic Growth

The Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, on Saturday, June 21, 2025, received the President of the Republic of Benin, His Excellency Patrice Talon, on behalf of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who is hosting the ongoing West African Economic Summit in Abuja, Nigeria.

The West African Economic Summit (WAES 2025), themed “Unlocking Trade and Investment Opportunities in the Region,” is aimed at accelerating intra-regional economic growth, enhancing integration and resilience, harmonising trade policies, and removing barriers to intra-African commerce. It also seeks to mobilise investment for critical infrastructure, energy, and logistics; empower women, youth, and SMEs; and strengthen economic resilience through innovation, institutional reforms, and strategic partnerships.

Prince Audu, who joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other Heads of State and Government from across West Africa, described the Summit as a regional amplifier of the Renewed Hope Agenda, reflecting Nigeria’s economic reform efforts within a broader West African framework.

“Mr. President has consistently reiterated his vision to grow the Nigerian economy to $1 trillion before the end of this administration. He has matched his words with action through bold and strategic reforms. Hosting the West African Economic Summit, in his capacity as Chair of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, reaffirms his commitment to regional growth and cooperation.”

“President Tinubu’s vision extends beyond Nigeria to the entire sub-region. This Summit creates a critical platform for dialogue, collaboration, and progress toward shared prosperity in West Africa.”

“At the Ministry of Steel Development, we are fully aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda and are working tirelessly to contribute meaningfully to both national and regional economic development,” Prince Audu stated.