Tinubu Pushes Digital Single Market to Accelerate West Africa’s Digital Economy

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged West African leaders to fast-track the creation of a digital single market, describing digital transformation as a key driver of economic diversification, entrepreneurship, and regional competitiveness.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Tinubu said technology has become central to the future of nations and should remain a priority for regional integration.

The President expressed Nigeria’s support for the ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration, noting that its emphasis on science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation aligns with the region’s long-term development goals.

According to him, establishing a digital single market, alongside regional frameworks for artificial intelligence, cybersecurity cooperation, digital infrastructure, and innovation ecosystems, will unlock new opportunities for businesses and citizens across West Africa.

He said the initiative would promote economic diversification, expand entrepreneurship, improve access to education, deepen financial inclusion, and create more jobs, particularly for young people.

Tinubu added that a unified digital market would also accelerate inclusive economic growth while positioning West Africa as a competitive player in the global digital economy.

The Nigerian leader reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to implementing the ECOWAS Compact, stressing that Nigeria would continue working with member states to strengthen regional integration through technology-driven initiatives.

Beyond digital transformation, Tinubu urged ECOWAS leaders to intensify cooperation in tackling insecurity, promoting constitutional governance, removing trade barriers, and improving cross-border infrastructure to support sustainable development across the sub-region.

The summit also featured discussions on regional security, democratic governance, economic integration, climate resilience, and trade, with leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening collaboration among ECOWAS member states.

The digital agenda formed part of broader efforts to leverage innovation and emerging technologies to build a more resilient, connected, and prosperous West Africa.