As the continent's leading oil producer and a demographic powerhouse, Nigeria appears on paper to be the natural leader of West Africa. Yet, on the economic front, Côte d'Ivoire has for several years displayed a dynamism that allows it to take a significant lead in terms of growth, attractiveness, and stability.

While the Nigerian economy remains heavily reliant on crude oil, it faces numerous challenges: high inflation, a depreciating naira, and oil production below its potential due to pipeline vandalism and chronic underinvestment, not to mention difficulties related to access to electricity and insecurity in some regions. These factors weigh on the business climate and discourage investment.

Conversely, Côte d'Ivoire continues to achieve strong economic performance with one of the highest growth rates on the continent. The country benefits from macroeconomic stability, modern infrastructure, a high-performing energy sector, and a rapidly expanding port of Abidjan that is strengthening its role as a logistics and financial hub in West Africa.

The country's gradual entry into the circle of oil and gas producers, with the exploitation of the Baleine field, also strengthens its prospects, while adding to an already diversified economy driven by agriculture, services and industry.

This contrast between a resource-rich giant hampered by structural constraints and a smaller but agile and reform-minded economy is now fueling regional analyses. While not yet surpassing Nigeria in size, Côte d'Ivoire is increasingly establishing itself as the engine of West African growth and a model of economic transformation.

The race for regional leadership remains open, but one thing is certain: the “Ivorian ant” is advancing with method, consistency and ambition.