Ghana’s Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, has underscored the strong performance of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) in 2025, while urging member states to honour outstanding financial commitments to sustain its growth trajectory.
Delivering a welcome address at the Bank’s 24th Ordinary Session of the Board of Governors in Accra, Dr Forson described the institution’s performance as resilient despite a challenging global economic environment.
“It has been an honour to work alongside such dedicated colleagues in advancing the cause of our Community through this strategic institution.” - Finance Minister.
The Minister revealed that EBID recorded significant financial expansion, with its balance sheet growing from US$1.97 billion in 2024 to US$2.39 billion by the end of 2025. Profitability also improved, rising by 13.3 per cent from US$8.55 million to US$9.75 million.
Operationally, the Bank saw even stronger momentum. Project approvals increased by 50 per cent, while commitments surged by over 83 per cent to US$813.77 million.
According to Dr Forson, these investments were largely directed at energy and transport infrastructure, key sectors for regional transformation.
“In the face of these headwinds, EBID did not just weather the storm; we rose above it,” he noted, adding that the Bank had strengthened its role as a driver of regional development.
Global Challenges Shape Performance
Dr Forson highlighted that EBID’s achievements came amid a difficult global backdrop characterised by geopolitical tensions, trade policy volatility, and uneven economic growth.
He described the global economy in 2025 as navigating a “steady but narrow” growth path, with divergent inflation trends and shifting commodity prices posing both risks and opportunities for member states.
For EBID, this translated into a complex operating environment requiring careful management of fiscal vulnerabilities and development priorities.
Beyond financial gains, the Bank recorded key institutional milestones that reinforced its credibility. International rating agencies reaffirmed EBID’s ratings, reflecting confidence in its governance and risk management framework.
The Bank also secured accreditation with the Green Climate Fund, opening new avenues for climate financing across West Africa. Additionally, the establishment of a regional office in Abidjan is expected to enhance project delivery and deepen engagement with member countries.
Call for Capital Commitments
Despite the progress, Dr Forson expressed concern over delays in capital contributions by member states. He noted that only four countries, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and Togo, have fully met their obligations under the agreed capital increase programme.
Outstanding arrears remain significant, with approximately US$256 million yet to be paid.
“Timely capital payments are critical. It strengthens EBID’s leverage and sustains its growth and impact across our region.” - Finance Minister.
As discussions continue in Accra, the Finance Minister urged member states to demonstrate unity and commitment in advancing the Bank’s mandate.
“The expectations of our citizens are high. They look to us for results,” he said, calling for bold decisions and coordinated action to drive inclusive growth across West Africa.
Dr Forson concluded by emphasising that EBID’s future success will depend not only on policy commitments but on tangible actions taken by member states after the session.
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