ABUJA, NIGERIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Saturday, June 21, 2025, addressed the West Africa Economic Summit at the Abuja International Conference Centre, urging regional leaders to embrace deeper cooperation and shared economic transformation as Liberia celebrates its election to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
In his remarks before an audience of Heads of State, economic policymakers, and business leaders from across West Africa, President Boakai conveyed greetings on behalf of the Liberian people and underscored the significance of the summit, which coincides with the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS.
Boakai praised Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for convening the summit and for what he called Tinubu’s “visionary leadership” as Chairperson of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government. He described the event as a strategic opportunity for member states to reflect and renew their commitment to economic integration and prosperity.
Addressing the assembly, President Boakai announced Liberia’s recent election to a Non-Permanent Seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2026–2027 term, a move he described as both an honor and a solemn responsibility.
“This milestone would not have been possible without the support, encouragement, and endorsement of Member States in this very room,” Boakai said. “Liberia is humbled by this vote of confidence, and we pledge to carry this mandate with humility and responsibility.”
Boakai emphasized Liberia’s intention to contribute meaningfully to global peace, multilateral dialogue, and diplomacy, drawing on its own post-conflict experience.
He also outlined Liberia’s strategic alignment with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), noting that the country is investing in infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and digital technology to boost its role in regional trade. Key projects include the modernization of the Free Port of Monrovia, expansion of electricity access, and support for agribusiness and rural transformation.
Boakai said these efforts are part of the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, which aims to strengthen institutions, improve public services, and attract private sector investment
Reaffirming Liberia’s commitment to peace and regional unity, Boakai called for renewed dialogue with ECOWAS member states that have taken “a divergent path,” urging reconciliation and continued engagement.
“With Liberia’s ascension to the Security Council, we are determined to be a principled voice for the region, advocating for just solutions to global and regional challenges and advancing the values that unite us,” he said.
The Liberian leader closed by urging fellow West African nations to mobilize their resources and deepen collaboration to convert the region’s potential into tangible, long-term progress.
“Let us seize this opportunity to deepen our collaboration and transform the potential of our region into lasting progress for our people,” Boakai declared.
