ECOWAS Pavilion, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island, Lagos, Nigeria
Director for Trade at the ECOWAS Commission
Mr. Kolawole Sofola is a Development Economist and Chartered Management Accountant with over 25 years of experience spanning international trade, private sector development, and economic management. He serves as the Director for Trade at the ECOWAS Commission, where he leads regional initiatives that strengthen trade integration, enhance competitiveness, and promote sustainable economic growth across West Africa. Before joining ECOWAS, Mr. Sofola worked with the multinational company Siemens in the United Kingdom and Germany, gaining valuable experience in corporate management and finance. He later contributed to private sector reforms while working with the Government of Ghana’s Ministry for Private Sector Development, supporting initiatives to improve the business environment and drive investment. At ECOWAS, he plays a key role in advancing trade facilitation and regional competitiveness, including leading the region’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) negotiations. His work continues to promote greater economic integration and stronger collaboration among West African states and development partners.