The Nigerian Association Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has charged the organised private sector (OPS) to strengthen its engagement with the federal government to formulate pro-business policies that would drive inclusive growth and development for the country.
Indeed, NACCIMA called on OPS to, as a matter of urgency, play an active role in policy formulation, especially as it affects the business community.
The National President, Dele Kelvin Oye, at an investiture ceremony, which took place in Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, to swear him in as the 22nd national president of the Chamber, said the private sector was a veritable tool for driving both foreign and local investments and that it contributed over 25 per cent to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).
Oye said: “We must find a way to influence political decisions because they affect businesses… We must find a way to ensure that the people who govern our country are not hungry people who are looking for food. They must be held accountable if they do not do well. We must let them know the impact of negative policies as they affect the business community and even the future of the country. We must all see service and leadership as an opportunity to do our best,” he urged.
According to him, under his watch, the association would prioritise development efforts, youth development and women empowerment.
“NACCIMA will be prioritising youth and women empowerment. We will be there to support both women and youths to find their feet so that Nigeria can be great again,” he said.
He urged the Federal Government to invest in the country’s educational sector, pointing out that one of the greatest challenges hindering Nigeria’s development was the decay in its educational sector.
“We must make education a priority because it is vital for achieving economic growth while also allowing the citizenry to question the leadership style of any country that desires positive growth and development,” he said.
The NACCIMA boss said he would also prioritise the creative sector in its bid to complement the federal government’s diversification agenda, stressing that he is passionate about the creative industry due to its ability to generate the much-needed foreign exchange for the economy.
He also pledged commitment to lead the Chamber most transparently and effectively in its bid to attract rewarding partnerships and the respect of its members.
The Governor, Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, commended the NACCIMA National president, saying that his outstanding commitment to fostering economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development in the nation is laudable.
“Your expertise and passion for advancing the interests of businesses, both small and large, have been evident throughout your illustrious career. I do not doubt that under your leadership, NACCIMA will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping policies, advocating for favorable business conditions and driving innovation across various sectors,” he said.
“As Governor, I am confident that your presidency will usher in an era of transformative change and progress for NACCIMA and the Nigerian business community as a whole. Your wealth of experience, visionary approach, and strong commitment to inclusive growth will undoubtedly yield remarkable results propelling our nation’s economy to greater heights.
I assure you of the full support and cooperation of the Ekiti State Government in your endeavors. We are committed to working hard in hand with NACCIMA to enhance the business climate, attract investments and create employment opportunities for our people. Together, we will build a more prosperous Nigeria where every citizen can realize their full potential.
On his part, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, said the event is an opportunity for collaboration amongst industry stakeholders and celebration of shared achievements over the past year, stressing that the event will also help determine and align the association’s desired strategic direction as a whole and for its members, which ultimately benefits the nation.
“As we look to the future, I am confident that the leadership of NACCIMA will continue its strides, as an umbrella body for various Chambers of Commerce within Nigeria to drive the economic growth and prosperity for our nation.
He commended NACCIMA for their tireless efforts in promoting industrial growth in Nigeria, saying that their commitment has been instrumental in driving the economic growth of the nation and creating jobs for the citizenry.
