Nigeria, India envoy seek stronger trade ties at ACCI–NACCIMA meeting

2026-03-13 - 18:57

By Progress Godfrey ABUJA — Nigeria and India are moving to strengthen trade and investment ties as First Deputy President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and National Vice President (India) of Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Prof. Adesoji Adesugba led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Indian High Commission in Abuja. According to a statement by ACCI’s Media & Strategy Officer Olayemi John-Mensah on Friday, the visit aimed to enhance private sector collaboration and build on previous engagements, including Prof. Adesugba’s October 2025 call with the High Commissioner, to explore deeper economic cooperation between the two countries. Discussions centred on creating an India–Nigeria private sector dialogue to provide a structured platform for Nigerian and Indian businesses to meet regularly and pursue joint initiatives. Key sectors identified for collaboration included mining, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, solid minerals, textiles, and gemstones. Prof. Adesugba emphasised the long-standing economic relationship between Nigeria and India. He said, “My primary objective is to establish a structured India–Nigeria Private Sector Dialogue, where business stakeholders from both countries can regularly meet to discuss areas of mutual economic benefit and promote stronger bilateral trade. “I am satisfied that my vision aligns with the plans of the High Commission and I reaffirm my commitment to facilitating deeper commercial partnerships.” Prof. Adesugba also highlighted his textile trading company, which has previously worked with partners in Switzerland and Austria, noting a strong interest in expanding trade relations with India. He said the sector offers immediate opportunities in sourcing, manufacturing partnerships, and supply chain development. On the Indian side, High Commissioner Abhishek Singh noted the encouraging investment signals coming from Nigeria and the performance of Nigerian businesses operating in India. He said, “Several sectors offer strong potential for collaboration between the two countries, including mining, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, solid minerals, and textiles.” He added: “We have scheduled two textile-related events in 2026, one expected to be held in June, presenting additional opportunities for collaboration between Indian and Nigerian textile businesses.” The High Commissioner nominated Mr Rajiv Saxena, Second Secretary (Commerce & Administration), to work closely with the ACCI delegation in organising sector-specific engagements. Both sides agreed to follow up on planned activities and priority areas of cooperation and Prof. Adesugba invited the High Commissioner to participate in the 2026 Abuja International Trade Fair from September 25 to October 6 to showcase Indian businesses and explore investment opportunities in Nigeria.