Abstract

This thesis presents existing published work examining the coherent theme of
the pertinent issues on economic development in West Africa. The seven
distinct and thematically related papers span over six years of study into the
issues relating to the socio-economic context of development in West Africa.
Each of the papers discusses salient aspects of regional development in
selected West African economies. This thesis has contributed to knowledge in
the academic literature on:
 The importance of health-responsive development policies in
enhancing agricultural transformation.
 The role of crude oil in augmenting economic performance.
 The importance of export diversification in fostering intra-trade
expansion and economic growth.
 The role of agricultural trade policy options in facilitating economic
expansion: the case of rice
 The contribution of standards to enhancing market access and
economic development: the cocoa case study
 The importance of the African Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA) in
promoting market access and economic performance
G.O.A. Odularu: Ph.D Thesis – An Economic Development Strategy for West Africa: Lessons and Policy Directions
vi
 The contribution of Saemaul Undong Model to enhancing rural
development policy space.
The thesis has attempted to provide an answer to the question: How can
regional economic development be achieved in West Africa? The critical
review and analyses of the issues examined in each of the papers provide
deep insights into the drivers of economic transformation in West Africa. In an
attempt to respond to this research question, this thesis proposes a workable
strategy for fostering economic development, but cautions that the success of
the strategy is contingent on a strong political will, coupled with an effective
coordination and cooperation at national and regional levels. The thesis
concludes that the proposed transformation plan must be innovation led by
strategically reconstructing the rural communities where economic potentials
are yet to be exploited.
Keywords: Agriculture, Crude oil, Export diversification, AGOA, CAADP,
Saemaul Undong Model, West Africa