The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) highlighted the pivotal role of stimulating Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in drastically reducing poverty in the country.
At the investiture ceremony of the second President of Nsukka Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NSCCIMA), Sam Otoboeze, NACCIMA’s National President, Dele Oye, emphasized the chamber’s role as a vital link between businesses and government. He underscored its commitment to facilitating commerce and advocating for enterprises to foster economic growth.
Oye commended Otoboeze’s visionary leadership and wealth of experience, expressing confidence in his capacity to elevate the economic fortunes of Nsukka zone. In his inaugural address, Otoboeze appreciated the preceding president and founding members, emphasizing NSCCIMA’s commendable developmental achievements aligned with its core objectives.
He highlighted the chamber’s flagship programs, notably the pending Geographical Indication (GI) status for Nsukka yellow pepper. Otoboeze emphasized entrepreneurs’ role in driving economic growth and outlined NSCCIMA’s plans to leverage the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and Maduka Onyishi University for town-gown collaborations to bolster the zone’s economy.
Recognizing Nsukka’s strategic location as a gateway between Northern and Southern Nigeria, Otoboeze pledged to position the zone as an agribusiness investment hub, attracting investors through strategic engagements, trade missions, and exhibitions.
NSCCIMA’s Director-General, Uchenna Nnadi, outlined plans to empower SMEs by providing training, mentorship, and support to access Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) loans, aligning with the chamber’s objectives.
Chairman of the occasion, Chief Ben Etiaba, stressed the importance of private sector involvement in economic growth, advocating for stronger collaborations between government, academia, and the private sector. He expressed confidence in Otoboeze’s capability to elevate NSCCIMA to a global platform given his experience and dedication.
