The African Development Bank Group, in collaboration with the Economic Community of West African States, has intensified efforts to mobilise financing for the Abidjan-Lagos highway, a major regional infrastructure project linking five West African countries.
The development followed the conclusion of a multi-country mission across Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin and Nigeria, aimed at securing investment commitments for the construction and long-term operation of the 1,028-kilometre corridor.
The proposed highway is expected to significantly enhance regional integration by improving connectivity along one of West Africa’s busiest economic routes, while also facilitating trade and movement of goods under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The mission brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, regional financial institutions, and private sector players, to advance discussions on funding structures, project design, and implementation strategies.
Officials involved in the engagement highlighted the urgency of securing adequate financing to avoid delays that could hinder the project’s economic potential, particularly in addressing infrastructure gaps and supporting industrial growth across the sub-region.
Technical consultations during the mission also focused on ensuring that the project incorporates environmental and social safeguards, alongside climate-resilient infrastructure standards.
The highway, once completed, is expected to serve as a major economic corridor, supporting cross-border trade, logistics efficiency, and regional value chains.
The African Development Bank, which is leading the initiative, has already committed financial support for preparatory activities, with the project now advancing into its investment phase.
Under an existing regional agreement, the highway will be developed and managed as a single transnational asset, overseen by a dedicated corridor management authority to ensure seamless coordination among participating countries.
Experts say the project represents a critical step towards building a more integrated and competitive West African economy, particularly as countries seek to maximise the benefits of continental trade frameworks.
