ECOWAS Investment Bank pledges €80 million and $92 million for West African value‑chain and transport projects

The ECOWAS Investment Bank (BIDC) signed two major financing agreements in July 2026. In Lomé, the bank committed €80 million to Coris Holding to expand long‑term financing for food, energy and agricultural value chains across West Africa. The deal, signed by BIDC President Dr George Agyekum Donkor and Coris CEO Diakarya Ouattara, aims to boost refinancing capacity for SMEs and promote inclusive growth.

Separately, BIDC approved a $91.6 million loan to the government of Bauchi State, Nigeria, to fund 24 road and bridge projects. The agreement, also signed by Dr Donkor and Bauchi Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, is expected to create about 5,000 construction jobs and 2,000 permanent positions, improving market access and reducing transport costs for rural communities.