EBID Launches First Regional Office in Abidjan to Empower West African Development

A Milestone for Regional Development: EBID Inaugurates First Office in Abidjan

The ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) achieved a historic milestone with the inauguration of its first regional office in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. This strategic move underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting socio-economic growth across West Africa. By being closer to its member states and key stakeholders, EBID aims to streamline project implementation, promote investment opportunities, and enhance cross-border collaboration, accelerating development across the ECOWAS sub-region.

Strengthening Partnerships for Success

The establishment of this office follows a groundbreaking agreement signed on May 12, 2025, between EBID and Côte d’Ivoire’s government. During the opening ceremony, Honourable Nialé Kaba, Minister for Economy, Planning and Development, praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of partnerships between the bank and stakeholders in the region. She referred to the office as “a strategic partner, a place for exchange and coordination, and a bridge between the bank, member states, the private sector, and civil society.” The bank’s approach aligns closely with the ECOWAS Vision 2050, aiming to create a prosperous, interconnected West Africa.

A Transformative Platform: Ensuring Accessibility and Impact

Dr. George Agyekum Donkor, EBID President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, lauded the opening as more than just an administrative milestone. “This office serves as a transformative platform,” he stated, “to deepen cooperation and fast-track impactful projects.” From the new Abidjan hub, EBID plans to work directly with governments, private organizations, and development stakeholders. Through better accessibility, the bank seeks to comprehend local realities, support projects effectively, and drive impactful initiatives to solution regional challenges.

Ambitions Beyond Growth: Innovation and Inclusivity

The decentralization aligns EBID with global best practices, as noted by Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, Chairman of the Board of Governors and Ghana’s Finance Minister. He emphasized that this investment heralds a future of stronger partnerships and enhanced intervention efficacy. The Abidjan office will cater not only to the growing private sector landscape but also to civil organizations and member states, ensuring inclusivity in West Africa’s ambitious economic plans. Such proactive strategies are expected to heighten EBID’s capacity to implement developmental goals that foster regional economic integration and prosperity.

A Multipronged Approach to Regional Development

The inauguration event brought together high-profile dignitaries, including Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister for Finance and Budget Adama Coulibaly, diplomats, CEOs of major financial institutions, and private-sector leaders. This showcase of unity highlights the extensive network of partnerships EBID relies on to craft sustainable growth models. By leveraging local expertise and fostering open dialogues, EBID aims to maximize its support to the ECOWAS community, laying the groundwork for significant transformations in the years to come.