7 - 9 April 2026Landmark Centre, Lagos, Nigeria

Industry News

West Africa Economic Outlook: Growth, Sector Dynamics, and Innovation

West Africa’s economy is projected to grow to 4.4% in 2025, a notable increase from the previous year. This positive outlook is being fueled by strong performance and significant investments across three key sectors: energy, agriculture, and financial technology (fintech). The region is attracting increasing foreign direct investment and diaspora remittances, which are essential for its economic expansion.

The energy sector is expected to see a major boom in 2025, driven by a combination of oil and gas projects and a growing push for renewable energy. Key initiatives like Nigeria’s Dangote Refinery and the Iseni Gas Project, along with a new refinery in Ghana, are boosting production and revenue. Concurrently, countries like Senegal and Gambia are advancing renewable energy projects, such as the Jambur solar plant, to enhance energy security, attract investment, and support industrial growth.

Agriculture remains a critical pillar of West Africa’s economy. Countries like Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire are leveraging their positions as global leaders in crops like cocoa, palm oil, and cassava to boost foreign earnings. The sector is set to benefit from the adoption of modern technologies, including mechanization and digital tools, which will increase productivity and attract investments. Additionally, the fintech sector is a key engine of growth, with countries like Ghana and Nigeria leading the way through the rapid expansion of mobile money services and a surge in investments, fostering greater financial inclusion.