Policy & Research Hub
Rigorous analysis and actionable policy recommendations to drive West Africa's economic transformation
Research Focus Areas
Our research informs policy decisions across West Africa's most critical economic development challenges
Economic Integration
Trade policy, customs harmonization, and regional market development strategies.
Social Development
Education, healthcare, youth employment, and inclusive growth initiatives.
Data & Analytics
Economic indicators, market research, and evidence-based impact assessments.
Policy Papers
Operationalising Integration: The Nigeria-Benin Trade and Investment Framework
This brief analyzes the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin at WAES 2025. It serves as a blueprint for resolving border frictions, formalizing informal trade corridors, and establishing a rules-based trade governance model within ECOWAS.
Powering the Single Market: A Strategic Roadmap for Energy Security and Infrastructure Resilience
This policy paper addresses the critical infrastructure deficits and energy poverty constraining West Africa's growth. It outlines the WAES 2025 resolution to balance fossil fuels with renewable energy transitions and introduces the Infrastructure Mediation Roadmap to unlock stalled regional projects.
Mobilising Capital for West Africa: Insights from the 2025 Deal Room
This publication reviews the performance of the WAES Deal Room, a flagship investment facilitation platform. It highlights the mobilisation of over $50 million in potential investments and the engagement of institutional investors in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).
The Next Generation Economy: Embedding Youth Innovation in Regional Integration
Drawing from the Pre-WAES Youth Futures Roundtable, this paper outlines strategies to harness West Africa's demographic dividend. It focuses on access to capital for youth-led MSMEs, digital infrastructure harmonisation, and the creation of regional innovation incubators.