The occasion marked an important moment for the Badagry business community and provided an opportunity for stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening the role of organised business in local and regional economic development.

In his remarks, the newly inaugurated BACCIMA President, Mr. Sewanu Ashamu Fadipe, pledged to strengthen cooperation and collaboration with the Nigeria–Benin Chamber of Commerce and Industry, particularly in areas of trade, investment, business development and cross-border economic engagement.

The event was chaired by Asiwaju (Dr.) Michael Olawale-Cole, 2nd Deputy President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), who represented Engr. Jani Ibrahim, mni, OON, President of NACCIMA and President of the Federation of West African Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FEWACCI).

The presence of senior Chamber leadership underscored the importance of collaboration among Chambers in advancing the interests of the organised private sector and creating stronger platforms for businesses to connect, grow and participate in regional economic opportunities.

Also in attendance was the Chairman of Badagry Local Government Hon. Babatunde Adande Hunpe, Barrister Kola Awe the NACCIMA Export Group Chairman and HRM The Alapa of Apa, Oba Oyekan Adekanmi Ilufemiloye Ajose Possi III, as well as other distinguished guests and stakeholders.

NB-CCI Delegation

The NB-CCI was represented by a delegation led by its President, Alhaji Fatai Adegboyega Shokunbi, and included:

• Mr. Emmanuel Essien – Director-General, NB-CCI
• Amb. Nicky Maxwell – Deputy President, Business Development & Partnership
• Barrister Bisiriyu Fanu Lasisi – Prestige Member
• Mr. Olaleru Olabusoye
• Mrs. Rukayat Ahmed
• Other members and stakeholders of the Chamber.

Strengthening Chamber-to-Chamber Collaboration

The NB-CCI considers its relationship with BACCIMA particularly significant given the strategic position of Badagry as a major gateway for Nigeria–Benin trade and regional economic activity.

The Chamber looks forward to working with the new BACCIMA leadership to promote stronger business-to-business relationships, trade facilitation, investment opportunities, enterprise development and regional value-chain partnerships.

The pledge of cooperation by the new BACCIMA President further reinforces the importance of collaboration among Chambers in developing the Badagry–Seme–Krake economic corridor and creating an enabling environment for businesses operating across the Nigeria–Benin border.

The NB-CCI congratulates Mr. Sewanu Ashamu Fadipe on his inauguration and wishes him a successful tenure. The Chamber looks forward to a productive partnership with the new BACCIMA leadership in advancing the interests of businesses and strengthening economic cooperation within Badagry and across the Nigeria–Benin corridor.

Nigeria–Benin Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NB-CCI)