International Collaboration: NIBC Nigeria’s pivotal role in Nigeria-India Business Summit
On January 23, 2023, the corridors of the prestigious Transcorp Hilton in Abuja were abuzz with a historic gathering of economic visionaries and political leaders for the Nigeria-India Business Summit.
It was a momentous occasion that underscored the growing strategic partnership between two of the world’s most dynamic economies: Nigeria and India.
At the heart of this grand convergence was the Nigerian India Business Council (NIBC) Nigeria, under the visionary leadership of Sir Emeka Offor. NIBC Nigeria showcased remarkable prowess in orchestrating what has been lauded as the most significant business summit in collaboration with NIBC, India and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in attendance.
The summit served as a testament to the potential of Nigeria’s private sector as a catalyst for economic diversification and growth, with NACCIMA playing its role as the apex chamber commendably.
The presence of the National President of NACCIMA, Mr. Dele Kelvin Oye, alongside prominent business figures such as Hajia Bola Shagaya, Dr. Kamoru Yusuf (Kam Steel) and James Uduji (Comestar) highlighted the collective resolve of Nigeria’s captains of industry to foster bilateral ties.
The attendance of top-tier government officials from various Nigerian states, including the chairman Northern Governors forum, Governor of Gombe State Alh Yahaya Inuwa, Governor of Nassarawa State and King of Lithium ,Engr. Abdulahi A. Sule, Niger State Governor, Alh Mohammed Umar Bago, and Katsina State Deputy Governor, Alh Farouk Lawal Jobe, spoke volumes of the political support for such initiatives.
They were joined by the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, and her colleagues, Minister of Steel, Alh Shuaibu Abubarkar Audu, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Alh. Atiku Bagudu and Minister of Foreign Affairs represented by Ambassador Akinremi Bolaji, overseeing pivotal sectors, demonstrating the government’s commitment to nurturing an enabling environment for business and investment.
India’s representation by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr S. Jaishankar, signified the high level of importance attached to this partnership by both nations, with business leaders like Rekha Sharma of NIBC India and Mr. Khurshed Daruvala of the CII leading the charge from the Indian side.
The summit was not only a platform for high-level dialogue but also a beacon of the tangible advancements that can be achieved through international cooperation. The discussions that took place have set the stage for breakthroughs in trade, investment, and economic development.
Under Offor’s sterling leadership, NIBC ,Nigeria has demonstrated its capability as a formidable conduit for fostering international business relationships. The council’s effective facilitation of the summit has propelled it to the forefront of Nigeria’s international business engagement, earning it due recognition as an influential force in shaping the country’s economic
landscape.
Commenting on the summit , Oye said “as we reflect on the success of the Nigeria-India Business Summit, it is evident that the collaborative spirit embodied by NIBC Nigeria and NACCIMA is a powerful catalyst for progress.
“The partnerships forged and the initiatives set in motion during this summit are poised to usher in a new era of prosperity for both Nigeria and India, built on the solid foundation of mutual respect, understanding, and shared ambition.
In conclusion, the Nigeria-India Business Summit at Transcorp Hilton Abuja has not only set a benchmark for future international economic forums but has also showcased the indispensable role that organizations like NIBC Nigeria and NACCIMA play in driving Nigeria’s economic diplomacy.
“The summit stands as a beacon of hope for a future where collaborative efforts translate into shared success and development for all parties involved.”
