The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has inaugurated 9th Mile Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (9CCIMA) and its founding President, Chief Leonard Ugwu.
Inaugurating the chamber and her president on Saturday in 9th Mile, Enugu, the National President of NACCIMA, Mr. Jani Ibrahim, tasked the new chamber to ensure that all business and commercial concerns were represented in the association.
Ibrahim urged the chamber leadership to build a robust and all inclusive chamber, which would lead to rapid growth and development of the 9th Mile area, Enugu State and the entire country.
Represented by Chief Humphrey Ngonadi, the President of the South-East Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (SECCIMA), the national president noted that the 9th Mile area was already endowed with natural resources, industrial parks and striving companies.
“I foresee a rapid growth of the chamber. However, the chamber and its council must build a robust team spirit that will accommodate all for the aspiration of establishing this chamber to be met.
“I congratulate you on this milestone and as the parent body, NACCIMA, will continue to support your growth as you seek to expand commerce, industry, mines and agriculture ventures,” he said.
Speaking, Governor Peter Mbah noted that 9CCIMA is geographically positioned as the gateway to the South-East and Enugu State, adding that with the track record of the council members the area is poised for rapid business growth.
Gov. Mbah, who was represented by the state’s Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Industry, Dr. Sam Nwobodo, said that the state had opened two business parks (industrial process zones) in the area before now.
“Niger gas has been revitalised, the state is developing world class motor spare part markets, land mapping and building of massive roads among others to ensure 9th Mile area becomes a major commercial/business hub,” he said.
He said that the state cannot achieve its target of a $30 billion GDP economy without building a conducive business environment that encourages active private sector investment and economic participation.
“The government congratulates 9CCIMA and her council members; and we look forward to working with you to uplift the state’s economy, her people’s earnings and living standard,” he added.
Speaking, the Director General of Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Uche Mba, said that the chamber would continue to support the growth of the new chamber.
“Enugu Chamber of Commerce always aligns with its broader vision of promoting every endeavour meant to improve the business environment in Enugu State and 9CCIMA is a great partner to achieve that.
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“The chamber congratulates 9CCIMA for coming on board; felicitates Chief Leonard Ugwu, an astute businessman, as the first and founding President of 9CIMA and his council members,” Mba said.
In his acceptance address, Ugwu, appreciated President Bola Tinubu; Gov. Mbah; Minister of Industry, Trade and investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; NACCIMA president; SECCIMA and ECCIMA for giving the new chamber all the needed support.
Ugwu said that the 9th Mile area is naturally endowed with best quality of potable water, coal and clay deposits as well as clement weather for poultry and animal husbandry business and processing.
“We have great tourism potential and sites to invest in; cashew plantation and other agricultural produce do well in our area; and two free trade zones with two dry ports for export concerns,” he said.
He said that within a few months, the chamber would increase its visibility through organising trade/business workshops, export seminars and training of youths and women in the area on how to start and run successful businesses.
Highlights of the event were Ugwu performing his first duty of inaugurating his nine-member council and presentation of award of excellence to some personalities, who had been instrumental to the establishment of the new chamber.
