West Africa: Nigerian Jani Ibrahim elected President of Fewacci, unveils five priorities for 2026-2029

Nigerian Dr Jani Ibrahim was elected President of the Federation of West African Chambers of Commerce and Industry (Fewacci) on September 28, 2026, following the organization's 11th elective general assembly held in Abidjan, according to RTI Info. The following day, he presented the new executive board and the priorities for his 2026-2029 mandate. "During this mandate, we will focus our activities on five essential programs, divided into four permanent infrastructure projects that the private sector itself will provide," stated Dr Jani Ibrahim. He plans African digital treaties to issue electronic certificates of origin verifiable by regional customs, as well as a regional portal dedicated to markets, tariffs, and partners: "We are creating a regional portal where businesses can find markets, tariffs, and serious partners." These are complemented by borderless corridors, a financing and payment facility system, and the promotion of "Made in West Africa" products in agro-industry, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. Faman Touré praised "a collective effort initiated a few years ago." Aboubakary Ouattara, representing the Ivorian Minister of Commerce, reiterated the commitment to strengthening business competitiveness and their integration into regional value chains. The board also includes vice-presidents from Benin, Ghana, and Guinea, and an assistant treasurer from Sierra Leone.