Ben Ezechime, Enugu
The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has inaugurated the 9th Mile Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (9CCIMA) in Enugu.
At the event, Chief Leonard Ugwu was also inaugurated as the founding President of 9CCIMA.
Speaking during the inauguration at 9th Mile Corner, Enugu State, the National President of NACCIMA, Mr. Jani Ibrahim, charged the new chamber to ensure that all businesses and commercial interests in the area were adequately represented.
Ibrahim urged the leadership to build a robust and inclusive chamber capable of driving rapid growth and development in the 9th Mile area, Enugu State, and the country at large.
Represented by Chief Humphrey Ngonadi, President of the South-East Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (SECCIMA), Ibrahim noted that the 9th Mile area was already blessed with natural resources, industrial parks, and thriving companies.
“I foresee rapid growth of this chamber. However, the chamber and its council must build a strong team spirit that accommodates all, in order to realize the vision for its establishment.
“I congratulate you on this milestone, and as the parent body, NACCIMA will continue to support your growth as you expand commerce, industry, mines, and agriculture ventures,” he said.
Governor Peter Mbah, represented by the Commissioner for Trade, Investment, and Industry, Dr. Sam Nwobodo, described 9CCIMA as strategically located as the gateway to Enugu State and the entire South-East. He noted that with the pedigree of the council members, the area was poised for rapid business expansion.
Mbah disclosed that the state had already established two business parks in the area and revitalized Niger Gas, in addition to developing world-class auto spare parts markets, land mapping, and massive road projects.
“The government cannot achieve its $30 billion GDP target without creating a conducive business environment that encourages active private-sector investment and economic participation.
“We congratulate 9CCIMA and its council members and look forward to working with you to uplift the state’s economy, earnings, and living standards,” he said.
The Director-General of the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Uche Mba, also pledged support for the new chamber.
“Enugu Chamber of Commerce aligns with the broader vision of promoting initiatives that improve the business environment in Enugu State. 9CCIMA is a great partner in achieving that.
“We congratulate the new chamber and felicitate with Chief Leonard Ugwu, an astute businessman, on becoming its founding president,” Mba said.
In her goodwill message, real estate magnate Chief Loretta Aniagolu commended Governor Mbah for revitalizing abandoned enterprises and expanding the state’s economy.
Delivering her keynote address, she advised 9CCIMA to focus on building local and international partnerships and creating a seamless business environment for investors.
In his acceptance speech, Ugwu expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Mbah, the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, as well as NACCIMA, SECCIMA, and ECCIMA, for their support.
He highlighted the 9th Mile area’s endowment with potable water, coal, clay deposits, and favorable weather for poultry and animal husbandry. He also noted its tourism potential, agricultural productivity, two free trade zones, and two dry ports for exports.
“In the coming months, we will increase our visibility through trade workshops, export seminars, and youth and women empowerment training on starting and running successful businesses,” he assured.
The event featured the inauguration of Ugwu’s nine-member council and the presentation of awards of excellence to key personalities who contributed to the establishment of the new chamber.
