By Fidelia Okafor
The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening Nigeria–China business relations as it prepares for its Business Forum in Guangzhou, China.
A closed door meeting with Naccima and the Consul General took place yesterday, marking a significant milestone for Nigerian business representation in China.
Despite the large number of Nigerians operating in the city, many of whom are engaged in logistics, the Consul General, Ambassador Collins Onwueke observed that there has been very few formal Nigerian business presence or major investor in China.
The Consul General commended NACCIMA for its active involvement, and expressed gratitude to the NACCIMA President, Engr. (Dr.) Jani Ibrahim, mni, OON, for mobilizing a strong delegation, emphasizing that such visits will help expand Chinese understanding of Nigerian entrepreneurship and dexterity.
In his remarks, Dr. Jani Ibrahim acknowledged the warm reception accorded to the Nigerian delegation by the Consulate General of Nigeria in Guangzhou, noting the Consul’s presence at the airport at his arrival as a gesture of partnership and goodwill. He commended the efforts of both teams in advancing Nigeria’s trade and investment agenda, describing the forum as “a timely step toward structured engagement between Nigerian and Chinese businesses.”
Highlighting NACCIMA’s strategic focus, Dr. Ibrahim stated that the core of his mission is to “proactively connect Nigerian businesses to global opportunities,” with China, particularly the Guangdong province, being a key player in NACCIMA’s global trade strategy.
He reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of a “private-sector-driven economy” , adding that NACCIMA’s role is to connect Nigerian entrepreneurs with international opportunities. “China has demonstrated focus, technology, and commitment. It’s time we move from a buyer–seller relationship to deeper collaboration,” he said.
To this end, the NACCIMA President proposed a structured partnership between NACCIMA and the Nigerian Consulate in China which would include Regular delegation exchanges and curated business missions amongst others.
Dr. Ibrahim further announced that NACCIMA would establish a dedicated China Relations Desk at its Secretariat to strengthen communication and follow-up on agreed initiatives. He also extended an invitation to the Consul General to attend NACCIMA’s upcoming Business Forum in Nigeria.
